A second-quarter blast from St Kilda has helped them cap off a forgettable week on a high note with a 25-point victory over North Melbourne in their practice match in Werribee.
The Saints were hit for six earlier in the week with four-time best-and-fairest Jack Steven stepping away from the club to deal with mental health issues and the revelation that Jake Carlisle was likely to miss a significant chunk of the season due to a back injury.
But Alan Richardson’s troops put those worries behind them on Saturday, piling on nine of 11 goals after quarter-time – including seven in a row – to eventually run out 15.11 (102) to 11.11 (77) victors in warm conditions.
St Kilda’s midfield got right on top after the first term and their pressure forced the Kangaroos into numerous turnovers – leading to Saints goals. Brad Scott’s men over-handballed the footy, ending up with 123 more disposals (461-338).
The Kangas also ended up with 15 more inside 50s (58-43) but St Kilda defenders Nathan Brown and Josh Battle barely gave them a sniff.
St Kilda had six multiple goalkickers, including Jack Billings (20 touches), Jack Steele (18) and Paddy McCartin (seven marks) who were among St Kilda’s best.
Dylan Roberton also played his first game since a heart scare last year.
St Kilda got off to a bright start and jumped out to a six-point lead early, but North Melbourne’s class and polish with the ball turned the tide as they booted three goals in a row to take an 11-point lead at quarter-time after enjoying 15 of the last 19 inside-50s of the term.
However, the Saints responded emphatically in the second quarter as they booted eight goals to two to open up a 27-point lead, which they rode to victory.