St Kilda key forward Paddy McCartin put his hand up for a return to the senior team, following a seven-goal haul in Sandringham’s 20-point win over Collingwood.
The 21-year-old was the clear standout on Saturday, taking ten marks along with 18 disposals in a display that could’ve netted more majors on the scoreboard.
Sandringham coach Lindsay Gilbee was full of praise for the developing McCartin, who leads the competition with his 12 goals over the opening three rounds along with a combined 26 marks.
“It was fantastic for Paddy McCartin and his strong form is a result of a lot of hard work. He’s reaping the rewards of his commitment to the team and the contest,” Sandringham coach Lindsay Gilbee told saints.com.au.
“He was the clear standout and he’s doing his chances of an AFL recall no harm. We couldn’t have asked anymore from him today. He was outstanding.”
Gilbee also made mention of Luke Dunstan and Nathan Wright, who also put in strong performances in the absence of the AFL promoted Koby Stevens and Jack Sinclair.
“Luke Dunstan played exactly like he always does, his way and committed to the contest. He was tough and used the ball well with his 25 disposals and seven tackles.
“Nathan Wright was fantastic for us and was in our top echelon today. We threw him in the midfield and he’s picked up the most disposals he’s ever had at this level (25 disposals, nine tackles). His toughness and pressure around the ground shone through.”
Other Saints to feature prominently at Beach Rd included Jack Lonie (25 disposals, seven tackles, two goals) and leading ball- winner Shane Savage (29 disposals, four tackles), giving the St Kilda selection committee plenty to ponder.
