St Kilda has been given a mini-boost after the AFL confirmed that Marvel Stadium’s roof will remain closed for all matches of the 2020 Season.

AFL General Manager of Football Operations Steve Hocking confirmed the decision with club football operations bosses in a video conference on Thursday night.

Prior to Round 1, the AFL made the call to have the roof open at all times, as per regulations set by the Federal Government due to COVID-19.

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But the revised verdict – in line with easing restrictions – has been welcomed by the Saints.

It means that inclement weather won’t rain – literally and figuratively – on St Kilda’s speedy parade and give the red, white and black an added edge against their opposition.

Recruited trio Brad Hill, Dan Butler and Zak Jones along with resident bolter Ben Long will relish the conditions, while tall targets Tim Membrey and Max King won’t have their clean marking impeded.

The Saints play two of their upcoming four games under the roof, kicking off against the Western Bulldogs next Sunday night.

But it doesn’t mean that wet-weather training will be forgone.

Brett Ratten’s men face a tough month ahead and will be exposed to the elements against Collingwood (Round 3) and Carlton (Round 5) at the MCG.

Last Friday’s full contact training and match simulation showed plenty of promise however, as the Saints seek the best preparation for what has already been a turbulent year.

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St Kilda will restart its 2020 campaign against the Western Bulldogs on Sunday 14 June at Marvel Stadium.