Tigers v Saints My Preview
The Tigers will be looking to rectify their round 16 performance against the Saints. It was an embarrassing capitulation and one that coach Hardwick and the playing group need to learn from. The selection of the Tigers best 22 has been intriguing. They have chosen to go with one genuine ruckman in the last couple of weeks. Cousin’s Ivan Soldo and Ivan Maric have been overlooked. Maric was a revelation in the number one ruck role, while Soldo has should good endeavour in his 1st year on an A.F.L list. Jack Riewoldt has performed well, functioning as the one tall forward of recent times. Shaun Hampson and Ben Griffiths have battled injury, while Tyrone Vickery was traded to the Hawks last year. The Small forward line of Rioli, Castagna and co have provided much needed defensive pressure in the Tigers forward line. The likes of Martin and Lambert have been potent around the goals.
St Kilda will also be going into the game with one genuine ruckman. However, they will be playing with 3 tall forwards; Riewoldt, Bruce and Membrey. The addition of Savage and Billings into the midfield has provided much needed run on the outside. The Saints are still a mathematical chance of making the finals. If they fail to make the finals they will still have extra incentive to win, with what could be Nick Riewoldt’s final game. Jack Sinclair, Blake Acres and Jade Gresham have created some smaller options to assist the likes of Nick Riewoldt when the ball goes to ground. Players on the periphery of the Saints 22, such as journeyman Koby Stevens have continued to play their roles for the team. Another integral part of the line up for the Saints has been the run in the back line generated by Dylan Roberton. Then there is Nathan Brown who has continually taken the oppositions key forward. Jack Carlisle has made a massive difference in the structure of the Saints taking some crucial marks off half back. Finally, there is the unassuming leadership of captain Jarryn Geary.
There is a lot to play for with the Saints hoping for a loss to the Eagles and the Bombers. While, the Tigers have a top 4 birth and a double chance up for grabs.
Tigers Game Changer: Shaun Grigg
Saints Game Changer: Shane Savage
My Prediction: Saints
Let me know what you think