St Kilda has given fans a glimpse into some of the up and coming talent within its line-up, with numerous young players putting their best foot forward in the Saints’ intra-club match on Saturday morning.

Although the Saints were absent of several stars and familiar faces – including Jack Steven, Dan Hannebery and Tim Membrey – the next generation of champions put together sound performances in front of the 4,000 strong crowd at RSEA Park.

Hunter Clark was arguably the pick of the bunch, backing up Brett Ratten’s earlier comments that he’d taken his game to another level with a dominant display through the midfield.

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The 19-year-old’s powerful running and influence through the centre were highly impressive. Given his relative inexperience at senior level, Clark was the Saints’ primary driver going forward, even finishing with a goal to boot.

What was most telling however, was Clark’s elite endurance – a trait he has rapidly enhanced this pre-season – as the second-year Saint seemingly appeared all over the ground and at the fall of every contest.

Clark ventured forward in the third term, but was covered in the midfield by vice-captain Seb Ross and Luke Dunstan, who too enjoyed solid outings at Moorabbin.

Ed Phillips was a constant presence on the wing, with the running machine’s output barely wavering throughout the match, and the physicality and pressure exhibited by the youngster was just as significant.

Ruckman Lewis Pierce was equally impressive, and had the better of opponents Rowan Marshall and Sam Alabakis for majority of proceedings.

But it was the excitement of mature-age recruit, Matt Parker which came to the fore. His two goals, phenomenal tackling and high-flying marks will help put the 23-year-old into contention for Round 1 selection.

Parker was a continual hit-up target in his side’s offence, with his speed and forward pressure both defining aspects of his performance in front of the St Kilda faithful.

Up the other end of the ground, Josh Battle thrived in his new role as a defender, thwarting several assaults from the opposition thanks to his intercepting abilities.

The former forward clunked several big marks across half-back as the loose man, and was instrumental in kickstarting several of the Saints forays forward alongside the returned Dylan Roberton.

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Darragh Joyce similarly highlighted his defensive nous before the game fizzled out in the last, piecing together a prominent showing in a backline absent of Jake Carlisle, Jarryn Geary (in the second half) and Nathan Brown.

The only sour note to come of the game was an ankle injury to Oscar Clavarino, who was helped off the ground by trainers in the shadows of the final term.

All eyes now turn to the JLT Community Series, as the Saints continue to build momentum ahead of their Round 1 clash against the Gold Coast.