The Saints have one key focus on Saturday night: to reignite against the Eagles.
With midfielder Jade Gresham out for the remainder of the season with an Achilles injury, Brett Ratten will be forced to make at least one change heading into Round 4.
But reinforcements are pushing to arrive in time for Saturday afternoon, with a fan-favourite Saint in the mix to take on the flag fancies.
Rowan Marshall
Rowan Marshall is edging closer towards a senior return following a successful run in the ruck at VFL level.
The Prospect managed to get through the better part of three quarters without complaint, and was particularly impressive in covering the ground, collecting forward possessions and winning the ball back for Sandringham in the air.
The 25-year-old has spent the past month on the sidelines with a foot injury, with the Saints deploying Paul Hunter, Shaun McKernan and Jake Carlisle in his absence.
Prior to missing the opening rounds of season 2021, Marshall had played 35 consecutive matches, last missing a game in Round 6, 2019 (illness).
Marshall is likely to be rejoined by ruck partner Paddy Ryder in the coming weeks, with the All-Australian returning to Victoria earlier this week.
Jimmy Webster
With a dangerous West Coast forward line on the horizon, Jimmy Webster could help stabilise the Saints' defence.
The defender was unavailable last week due to a concussion, with the AFL’s latest concussion protocols forcing him to the sidelines for a minimum of 12 days.
As a result, Webster took part in no football this weekend, but remains in contention for a call-up.
Webster is just five games shy of his 100-game milestone.
Jack Bytel
The loss of Jade Gresham has opened up a spot in St Kilda's engine room, and Jack Bytel could be the man to fill it.
Bytel was best on ground during Sandringham's practice match against Essendon, delivering a strong four-quarter performance through the midfield.
The 20-year-old proved to be tough and explosive on the inside alongside Luke Dunstan, with his positive energy and output paving the way towards a 29-point victory.
Bytel was a consistent performer throughout the Saints' practice matches last season, earning his debut in Round 11 against Geelong.
In contention
Darragh Joyce is in the hunt for a place in the senior line-up following another strong defensive effort in the VFL.
Alongside Tom Highmore, the 23-year-old effectively patrolled Sandringham's backline and was reliable in the defensive half through his intercept and leadership skills.
Joyce last played for the Saints in Round 11, 2019.
Luke Dunstan shapes as an ideal replacement for Gresham in the middle, and has been providing plenty of pressure at centre bounce.
Paul Hunter and Dean Kent also remain in selection calculations, with both listed as emergencies for the Saints over the weekend.
