One week Ross Lyon is opposed to the man he replaced as coach, the next he goes up against the club where he forged his formidable AFL reputation.
But St Kilda figures say there will be nothing special for them when they host Lyon’s Fremantle on Friday night at Etihad Stadium.
Lyon sensationally quit the Saints at the end of last season and announced he would take over at Fremantle who, only hours before, had ruthlessly sacked Mark Harvey.
Dockers’ fans gave Harvey a warm reception at Patersons Stadium on Saturday as he worked as a Brisbane assistant coach.
One of the most interesting aspects of Lyon’s sudden defection from St Kilda is the lack of public criticism he has received from Saints’ players.
Lyon earned massive respect from his old charges and almost led them to a premiership.
He has also pointed out the Saints had several months to negotiate a new contract with him before the shock move west.
New coach Scott Watters and veteran players Lenny Hayes and Leigh Montagna all played down what it would mean to play against Lyon this week.
“There will probably be a bit of noise during the week,” Watters said.
“That will make it slightly different, but it won’t change our preparation at all.
“We play a talented side (and) we look forward to that – it’s another challenge.”
Hayes told the club website that he hoped Saints’ fans would not give Lyon a hostile reception.
“I hope it’s good because no one can deny what he has done for the club,” Hayes said.
“I’m really thankful for the time I had under Ross and I believe my footy and the club went to another level under him.
“But once that ball’s bounced, we will be trying to knock them off for sure.”