LEIGH Montagna had yet another standout season in the red, white and black.
He played every game after round one and averaged a career-high 29.6 disposals per game, including a career-best 47 possessions against Fremantle in round 23.
While the 29-year-old was largely consistent in the first half of the year, it was only in the last two months of the season that Montagna truly dominated games on a weekly basis.
From round 17 to the end of the year, his lowest disposal tally in a game was 28 possessions – illustrating his tremendous value to St Kilda’s midfield setup, not to mention his leadership and goal-kicking qualities.
Montagna finished third in the Saints best and fairest, following runner-up placing’s in 2010 and 2012 and established himself among the AFL’s elite ball users and outside runners in the competition.
Midfield coach Dean Laidley:
"Leigh obviously had outstanding year. His ability to run and carry was great on a consistent basis and he also kicked a few goals as well. He used his voice to teach and organise younger players which advances their development significantly. Overall he is a very important player for us."
STATS CENTRE
1st at St Kilda for total kicks
3rd at St Kilda for total handballs
1st at St Kilda for total disposals
5th at St Kilda for total marks
3rd at St Kilda for total tackles
5th at St Kilda for frees for
1st at St Kilda for inside 50s
Equal 2nd at St Kilda for inside 50s
1st at St Kilda for uncontested possessions
Equal 2nd at St Kilda for total clearances
4th in AFL for total kicks
4th in the AFL for total disposals
Saints in review today: Leigh Montagna, Adam Schneider, Daniel Markworth
Saints in review tomorrow: Nick Riewoldt, Jarryn Geary, Arryn Siposs
You can follow Tom Morris on Twitter: @tommorris32
