LIKE St Kilda, Sandringham missed out on finals football this season. The Zebras played their last game on the weekend and finished the year on a high, defeating Frankston by 15 points at Trevor Barker Beach Oval.
Nine St Kilda-listed players took the field in the hard-fought win, with Sam Dunell, Jimmy Webster, Darren Minchington and Nathan Wright each collecting 20 or more disposals for the match.
RECAP: Sandy finishes with a win
Dunell’s 27-possession, two-goal performance bodes well for the future. Once again his versatility was evident, as he was instrumental across half-back and through the midfield before pushing forward. The 23-year-old hasn’t played for the Saints since round 19 and will be eager to add to his career tally of nine games if selected this Saturday.
Webster was similarly influential down back, using his exemplary kicking skills to full effect. The classy left-footer finished with 21 touches, seven tackles and seven rebound 50s – suggesting that he’s rapidly finding the balance between attacking run and defensive play.
Webster has been a solid contributor when selected for St Kilda, playing 11 games after debuting against Carlton in round seven.
Darren Minchington’s defensive work ethic was also very good on the weekend, laying six tackles to complement his 20 disposals and two majors for the afternoon. He was especially vibrant early in the contest after collecting nine disposals and booting one goal against Sydney the Sunday before.
While Webster was on one back flank, Nathan Wright was on the other. Together, the two youngsters combined exceptionally well. Webster utilised his superb foot skills, whereas Wright preferred to break the lines and take the game on himself.
Wright ended the match with 20 disposals, two rebound 50s, three inside 50s and a goal to complement his work in the back half. While he hasn’t played for St Kilda since round 15, the 19-year-old has illustrated his potential this season at both AFL and VFL level and will benefit from another summer on the track.
Returning to action after a hamstring injury, Beau Maister spent time in the ruck and up forward, booting three goals amongst 14 disposals and eight marks.
The aforementioned players all impressed on Saturday and St Kilda is certain to make at least one change with Jack Newnes succumbing to a shoulder injury and unavailable for selection.
RECAP: Newnes and Gwilt out for season
Justin Koschitzke is progressing promisingly with his calf injury and if fully fit will play his 200th and final game according to Scott Watters. The iconic Saint who has given over a decade of wonderful service to the club announced his retirement during the week alongside Stephen Milne and Jason Blake.
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Koschitzke’s protégé, key forward Tom Lee, was a late withdrawal last weekend and didn’t play at VFL level either. Similarly, Josh Saunders was rested for St Kilda’s clash against Gold Coast and is an exciting prospect for 2014 and beyond.
Whatever Scott Watters elects to do selection-wise this Saturday, the focus will undoubtedly be on the three retirees and Adam Schneider who joins Koschitzke in playing his 200th game.
You can follow Tom Morris on Twitter: @tommorris32
