ST KILDA has fallen just short of West Coast in a physical and engrossing round three clash at Patersons Stadium.

As was the case with the Saints match against the Giants last Saturday, this encounter was played at a frantic pace. 

A handful of players began to cramp in the latter stages, an issue that was exemplified by the fact that both teams were forced to use their respective subs in the first term. 

Sam Gilbert was subbed out with a foot injury, while Mark LeCras injured his wrist and was replaced by Will Schofield. 

Farren Ray, Leigh Montagna and third-gamer Luke Dunstan were St KIlda's best players, working ferociously on the inside and spreading with class and poise on the outside. 

Ray finished with 26 disposals and looks to be in career best form, while Montagna booted two goals and collected 27 touches with 10 clearances. 

But it was Dunstan who proved to be the shining light from a St Kilda perspective. The teenager bettered his round one NAB Rising Star performance by amassing 29 possessions and kicking two majors. 

Despite his inexperience, the left-footer looks at home in the Saints engine room and finished with a disposal efficiency of 83 per cent, five tackles and six clearances. 

Yet his efforts were ultimately not enough, as the Saints youngsters tired and consequently their ball use - which was relatively clean early - faltered late. 

Both teams' disposal efficiencies hovered in the mid 60s for much of the evening - well below the AFL average - a sure sign that the pressure around the ball carrier was intense all night. 

Nick Riewoldt enjoyed an excellent second quarter and an even better third term, but found it tough to consistently breakaway from West Coast defender Eric McKenzie. Despite the Eagle shot-stopper's close marking, Riewoldt still booted two goals and continually presented further afield. 

David Armitage was his usual relentless best despite being closely followed by Scott Selwood, while Josh Saunders and Eli Templeton were both lively contributors up forward. 

In defence, James Gwilt and Sean Dempster were often undersized but rarely beaten, while Jimmy Webster provided excellent rebound after missing last week's win with a groin strain. 

Jack Newnes impressed yet again, as did Tom Hickey against two giants of the competition. 

Montagna, Dunstan, Ray, Riewoldt, Newnes, Gwilt

Riewoldt (2)

Montagna (2)

Dunstan (2)

Templeton (1)

Maister (1)