To put it bluntly, there is a good chance this will be another very long season for the Saints.
Despite making serious inroads in list regeneration, they have too many players outside of the 23 – 28 age range with sufficient games played to warrant decent opposition against most other AFL sides.
Now despite this, there is an array of young talent added to the list which should keep Saints fans engaged for this season at least. Paddy McCartin and Hugh Goddard are the versatile tall replacements the club has been screaming out for, whilst Daniel McKenzie and Jack Lonie are the athletic and polished types.
Even though there is an element of newer blood to look at, it’s the class of 2013 who’ll be the most under the microscope in their second seasons. Jack Billings, Luke Dunstan and Blake Acres all have two pre-seasons under the belt and need to now focus on getting on the park for as many games as possible.
The older brigade will continue to shoulder the blows as much as possible, with Montagna and Riewoldt featuring again amongst the clubs best on game day more often than not. That said, those players sliding into their ‘prime’ football - Tom Hickey, Jack Steven, Shane Savage - will have to take on more responsibility.
Gauging how well the Saints can stave off another wooden spoon is down to how the middle tier players start performing. Too much can’t be left to the veterans and the fresh blood.
There is no mincing words at the on-field struggle ahead, but if the right output is achieved, development will follow and the light at the end of the tunnel becomes visible.
Players to watch
Jack Steven
Held back with an unfortunate run with injuries, but Steven is one of the few reaching that ‘middle age’ tier that has the ability to become an A grade player. Perhaps his disposal could still use some work here and there, but accumulates the ball at an incredible rate.
Maverick Weller
Originally picked up as an offcut from the Gold Coast, Weller has settled into his new home at Seaford. Perhaps not going to be a superstar, but is the kind of clubman you could build a successful team around if kept long enough.
Luke Delaney
One of the best pick-ups by the Saints. Appeared just too slow and cumbersome at North Melbourne, but has dropped weight and fit into the team quite well. Should be looking to improve on a very positive 2014.
Key Games
Round 1 v GWS – Crunch game first up for those looking to secure a spot in the team. Very gettable opponent and need to kick off the season in a positive fashion.
Round 11 v Melbourne – The Dees maybe due one last year in the cellar, so another winnable game against an opponent in their sphere of capability.
Round 17 v Fremantle - In one of the more shocking results of 2014, Saints pulled off one of the most bizarre floggings of recent history. Dockers may rest a few as the season winds down, so perhaps another chance here of an upset.
Finishing position – 18th