ST KILDA has made three changes to the team that defeated Melbourne by two points in round 11, bringing Sam Fisher and Dylan Roberton back from injury, and welcoming promoted rookie Adam Schneider back into the senior team.
Fisher strained his hamstring against Hawthorn in round 10 and missed the following week’s game, but has recovered and will join fellow veterans Sam Gilbert and Sean Dempster in defence.
The trio has formed the backbone of St Kilda’s defence for almost a decade and will re-unite for the first time since round 22 last year.
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"If we had played last week, Sam Fisher would have been right to go," Alan Richardson told SAINTS.com.au.
"He's been able to rest and we are looking forward to having him back -particularly given his experience.
Roberton was a late withdrawal in round 11 with a foot infection and has enjoyed a busy bye period, turning 24 and welcoming his third child, Philippa Grace Roberton, into the world on June 19.
"Robbo has become a really important member of our back six," Richardson said.
"His versatility allows us to have him play on tall or small without losing structure."
Schneider’s return follows a rookie promotion, which will see him remain on the senior list (barring any long-term injury) for the remainder of the 2015 season.
"Schneids also gives us versatility in that he can play midfield or forward," he said.
"He's very good with the way he communicates and directs his younger teammates."
The 31-year-old was described as an ‘on-field assistant coach’ mid-week by Alan Richardson and will take his place in a strong-looking Saints line-up after missing round 11.
Round 13: Match day info
Defenders Luke Delaney and Cameron Shenton have been omitted, as has utility Blake Acres.
Daniel McKenzie has been named as an emergency alongside Shenton and Acres.
B: Gilbert Fisher Webster
HB: Savage Dempster Geary
C: Ray Armitage Montagna
HF: Minchington Riewoldt Schneider
F: Lonie Bruce Membrey
FOLL: Longer Steven Weller
I/C: Ross, Dunstan, Newnes, Roberton
IN: Schneider, Fisher, Roberton
OUT: Delaney, Shenton, Acres
MILESTONE: Farren Ray 200 games
