The Saints are steeling themselves for arguably their biggest test so far in 2019: Collingwood at the MCG.

But after his side matched it with the Eagles for large parts of the game last Saturday night, will Alan Richardson hold firm or call for backup?

NEWNES' WEIRD NICKNAME: Jack Newnes reveals bizarre nickname on Talking Jack with Jarryn podcast

That support could come in the form of ex-Pie Jonathon Marsh, whose 26 disposals and 13 marks in defence against the Magpies’ VFL side helped lead Sandringham to a thrilling one-point win.

Marsh debuted for the Saints at full forward against the Giants in Canberra, but a call-up to his natural home down back beckons after he thwarted countless Collingwood forays.

Brandon White has been on the cusp of selection for nearly the entirety of Season 2019.

A strong pre-season for the gifted left-footer has seen him consistently push for a spot, and with so many crucial St Kilda backs unavailable, Round 9 could be his week.

Mature-age pick-up Nicholas Hind is yet to debut for the red, white and black, but another well-rounded performance off half-back has his name on the table.

SAMMY'S REVIEW: Aaron Hamill exclusively reviews each Saints-listed Zebra

Robbie Young’s relentless pressure mirrors that of fellow indigenous mature-age draftee Matty Parker, and his brutal tackling and classy goal for the Zebras could see him debut.

Hunter Clark was back to his prolific self for Sandringham, picking up 28 disposals and showing trademark composure to push his case for a senior recall.

The Saints face Collingwood at 1:45pm on Saturday afternoon at the MCG.