The Saints will be without Steph Chiocci for the remainder of the season, with scans confirming an Anterior Cruciate Ligament rupture.

The experienced leader left the field in the first quarter of St Kilda’s win over Hawthorn after injuring her right knee in a tackle.

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RD6 | Chiocci's day done with knee injury

Steph Chiocci appears to injure her knee during this first-quarter contest which sees her day end early.

“It’s a big blow for not only Steph, but our whole program to not have her out there with us for the remainder of the season, ” General Manager of AFLW Tessie McManus said.

“She’s such an important leader who has the ability to have an immediate impact on the game.

“While it’s devastating to not have her playing, Steph will play an important role for us during the week and on game days.

Straight-shooting Saints go three on the bounce

“This was no more evident than her support and instruction from the bench after her injury today; not much keeps Steph down for long.

“Steph heads into this rehab period with our full support.”

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