There are many ways to describe St Kilda’s chances of playing AFL finals; mathematical, slim, unlikely or dubious.

But whichever way you cut it, the Saints (10-9) are still a live chance of hauling in North Melbourne (12-7) with three matches remaining and defender Sam Gilbert says that’s the main thing.

“It’s out of our control but it’s good to be spoken about. Hopefully we can continue and give ourselves every opportunity,” Gilbert said on Monday.