Three to watch: Saints

portadelaidefc.com.au looks at the three most dangerous players in St Kilda’s ranks, who could prove dangerous in Sunday’s clash.

JOSH BRUCE: #27

With skipper Nick Riewoldt playing higher and on the wing in the latter part of last season, key forward Bruce has become one of the Saints’ main avenues to goal.

At 196cm, 94kg, he’s a big target with the agility and mobility to get up the ground and race back to the goal square.

He’s handy in the contest, ranking sixth for contested marks (40 in total in 2015), and has proved damaging on the scoreboard, kicking 50 majors and 25 points last year (sixth in the AFL).

Shutting down his opportunities inside 50 will be key to the Power’s defence on Sunday.

LEIGH MONTAGNA: #11

A key cog in the Saints’ engine room, this midfielder’s field of expertise lies in winning the contest at ground level.

He’s added flexibility to his game over the past two seasons with a lot more work on the outside, which earned him second rank in the AFL for average metres gained, at 511m.

Montagna also ranks in the top 10 for average disposals in the competition at 28.6 per game, and is number 1 for average inside 50s.

He’s integral to the Saints’ link-up, bringing elite speed, consistency and a wealth of on-field experience to their otherwise young midfield unit.

Expect him to put on a performance in his 250^th AFL game on Sunday.

DYLAN ROBERTON: #17

Off the back of his finest season yet, ultra-consistent rebounding defender Roberton plays an integral role in the Saints’ backline Saints’ backline, starting their offence and intercept marking to support his other defenders.

He’s ranked tenth in the AFL for rebound 50s and third at St Kilda for marks from opposition kicks.

A key in the backline link-up with fellow defenders Dempster and Fisher, his elite offensive run and composed ball delivery is another force, earning him fifth place at the Saints for metres gained.

Usually tasked with taking on the opposition’s key forward, expect a match up against the Power’s experienced Jay Schulz or big man Charlie Dixon.

Port Adelaide hosts St Kilda in AFL Opening Round on Easter Sunday, March 27 at 2:50pm (ACDT).

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