A disappointing result last Friday night against a classy Tigers outfit could be the catalyst for drastic changes to the team Alan Richardson takes to Sydney.
But with a host of Saints determined to break back into the senior side and a trio pressing hard for debuts, who will get their chance?
Nathan Brown has been a stalwart in defence since crossing from the ‘Pies in 2016, his big-bodied presence a handy addition to the Saints’ defensive line-up.
The 29-year-old brings over 150 games’ experience to an otherwise relatively young backline, and his leadership and shutdown style would help negate the Giants’ threatening forward line.
WATCH: Ben Paton VFL highlights (Round 16)
Ben Paton has been on the brink of senior selection a number of times so far in 2018, and the first-year Saint has continued to press his case with a string of strong performances in the VFL.
Taken with pick No. 46 at last year’s draft, the ex-Murray Bushranger’s capacity to win the
Logan Austin has played just five games for the Saints since arriving from Port Adelaide last year, but the athletic defender has the ability to match it with both
The Canberra product has been suffering from groin soreness for the last fortnight, and he’ll need to get through Thursday’s main session unscathed to be in the frame for selection.
Irishman Ray Connellan is desperate for his shot at AFL level.
Ray Connellan is yet to taste senior football after his compatriot Darragh Joyce got his chance earlier in the year.
A two-goal performance for the Zebras on Sunday was the latest in a run of solid games for the Irishman, and the ex-Gaelic football star’s name will certainly be discussed for a potential debut.
Blake Acres showed once again why he is so highly-rated, racking up 36 disposals to be named best-afield for the Zebras despite the result being an 11-goal loss.
The 22-year-old missed over two months of football earlier in the year due to persistent groin soreness, but his recent continuity at VFL level should have his name firmly in the conversation for selection.
READ: Acres stands tall
Nick Coffield hasn’t played senior footy since Round 12, and he’s spending time in the VFL to work on his defensive craft and ability to play man-on-man under the guidance of Aaron Hamill.
The ex-Northern Knights skipper’s potential is evident in his high draft selection, and Coffield will undoubtedly feature heavily for the Saints in seasons to come.
Nathan Freeman has endured as difficult a start to his AFL career as anyone, with unrelenting injury issues sidelining the talented midfielder for over four seasons.
But ‘Freeza’ is finally gaining continuity in his football, and if he can recapture his most dangerous asset – his explosive ability from stoppage – then a 2018 debut looks very likely.
Jimmy Webster’s groin soreness will likely keep him sidelined for another week, while Ben Long is almost a certainty to make his return through the VFL this weekend.
