The Saints return home to Etihad Stadium this Saturday night to face the Bulldogs, and there’s a host of Saints pressing hard for senior selection.
Jimmy Webster has fully recovered from the groin soreness that has kept him sidelined for the last fortnight, and the classy half-back is raring to go again.
Webster has been one of the Saints’ shining lights in Season 2018, and his inclusion would add a welcome dose of elite ball use coming out of the back half.
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Ben Paton continues to show why he’s so highly rated in just his first year at the club, with another 20+ disposal game the latest in a string of solid outings for the Murray Bushrangers product.
The 19-year-old utility has the ability to play as an inside mid as well as up and back, and his good form is once again pressuring the match committee to call him up for his debut.
Nathan Freeman put together another high-possession game, this time amassing 37 disposals in an influential display for the Zebras at VFL level.
If selected, his inclusion would mark the end of a 5-year-long wait for a taste of senior football, and the resilient 23-year-old will be desperate for his chance at the big-time.
Nathan Freeman had another high-possession game for the Zebras
Bailey Rice was left out of the side that faced the Giants but responded extremely well in the VFL, showcasing his hardness at the footy and ability to set up from the back.
Hugh Goddard’s last three games have been phenomenal for the Zebras, and Sandringham coach Aaron Hamill has suggested a return to senior football is not far off for the key defender.
Hunter Clark was managed last week after a run of 11 consecutive games, but the promising first-year Saint’s elite foot skills should hold him in good stead at the selection table.
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In his last five outings for the Saints, David Armitage has averaged over 25 touches, four tackles and one goal per game, and he’ll be hoping for another shot at senior footy this week.
2018 Rising Star nominee Ben Long played restricted minutes in the VFL, while Logan Austin is again available for selection after a groin injury.
