A pair of star Saints are among those in the frame for senior selection ahead of Saturday afternoon’s crucial clash against the Demons.
Jarryn Geary’s virus forced a late withdrawal on Sunday, but if healthy, the skipper’s inclusion is a no-brainer after an excellent start to his 2019 campaign.
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Star midfielder Jack Steven is equally raring to go, having managed his workload for the past fortnight after an interrupted pre-season.
The Saints' four-time Trevor Barker Award-winner would add explosive pace through the middle, and played a crucial role last time the two sides met.
Nick Hind’s speed and class were on display in Sunday’s curtain-raiser, as the former Essendon VFL product consistently broke the game apart with his run off half-back.
Along with 41 possessions and a goal, the mature-age recruit’s line-breaking ability and dynamism could see him earn his long-awaited AFL debut.
Hard-nosed defender Daniel McKenzie was one of the Saints’ best in the first half before sustaining a head knock; his availability will depend on the mandatory concussion testing.
Ben Paton was Geary’s replacement and came to the fore late, as his composure with ball in hand and crucial last-ditch spoils saw off numerous opposition forays.
Meanwhile, defender Brandon White has been impressive at VFL level and was the carry-over emergency on the weekend.
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The Saints face the Demons at 4:35pm this Saturday at the MCG.
