After a week off to rest the legs, the Saints will waste no time in returning to the spotlight as they prepare for a Thursday night blockbuster.

Get all the latest from Ross Lyon ahead of the Saints' clash with the Swans at the SCG.

Donate now to help fund mental health initiatives run from the DFC
08:52

Rested and raring to go, Lyon and Saints steel for Swans

Ross Lyon spoke to the media ahead of St Kilda's Thursday night match against Sydney at the SCG.

Raring to go

Keep it simple, Saints.

That’s the message from a refreshed Ross Lyon after reviewing St Kilda’s 7-4 start to the year over their mid-season break.

Despite a drop in form heading into bye week, the Boss is confident his troops can rediscover their best footy, starting with Thursday’s trip to the SCG.

Ross says...“It was timely, the break. We’ve reviewed it (areas of improvement) and simplified it even more, so under pressure they can execute and feel good about themselves.”

Gallery | Saints on song to face the Swans

Rested and refreshed after the bye, the Saints are ready to come out swinging against the Swans.
46

Feeling as good as ever

Fresh legs isn’t the only feel-good factor at RSEA Park this week.

With half a year now under their belt in a new football program, Ross says the group is feeling more connected than ever.

Ross says...“It’s as good a feeling since I’ve been here. Early in the year we were on edge because we were all coming together and uncertain. We were really brave from Round 1 with all that uncertainty…we find ourselves in pretty good shape because we were brave with all that uncertainty.

“We acknowledge two of our last three weeks haven’t been great, but we’ve got money in the bank, we’ve had a lot of deposits. We’re not overly stressed but we’re agitated about getting back to the best version of ourselves and see where that takes us.” 

Billings' setback

Ross delivered some unfortunate news on Jack Billings, who will miss a month of action with a hamstring injury.

The 27-year-old sustained the injury playing for Sandringham in the VFL in the game's closing stages.

Ross says...“He was really close to selection (pre-injury). He’s torn a hamstring and he’ll be out for four-to-six (weeks). We feel for him, he’s worked his butt off, and hopefully he’s in good shape to come back quick.”

Respect to a great

Thursday night marks Lance Franklin’s 350th AFL appearance. Interestingly enough, ‘Buddy’ also played games 100, 200 and 300 against the Saints.

Ross paid homage to the goalkicking legend.

Ross says...“He’s handy isn’t he. I love watching him play (but) we’re here to crash the party.”

Ross back where he left off

Classic RTB.

EXPLORE