What to expect

St Kilda recorded their first win of the season last weekend against Collingwood in a game where they showed a lot of fight.

After losing Nick Riewoldt and Paddy McCartin mid-game due to concussion, the Saints went small in their forward line and constantly got in behind the Pies’ defence to kick goals.

This isn’t the first time that they have been able to cut through an opposition press, kicking a number of goals ‘out the back’ against Port Adelaide in Round 1.

Their midfield certainly doesn’t lack talent, with the likes of Jack Steven, Leigh Montagna and David Armitage established stars and emerging players Seb Ross and Jack Newnes all becoming part of the Saints’ on-ball rotations this year.

After losing the contested possession count last week against the Bulldogs, the Hawks will need to ensure they don’t allow the Saints to get the ball first on Saturday.

Players to watch

Jack Steven has started the season in tremendous form, collecting 36 disposals and a goal against Port Adelaide, 29 touches against the Bulldogs and 30 disposals and three goals against Collingwood.

Ensuring both he and Leigh Montagna (who collected 40 disposals last week) don’t get as much of the footy will be key in winning the battle in the midfield.

Josh Bruce has also been in good form recently, and after signing a new contract during the week may be needed to take on some extra responsibility if the Saints are forced to make a couple of changes.

Changes

Three injuries have forced the Saints hand, however key forwards Nick Riewoldt and Paddy McCartin have overcome concussion to be fit for Saturday's match.

Out goes Dylan Roberton (knee), Jimmy Webster (quad) and Luke Dunstan (hamstring), with swingman Tom Lee and midfielders Blake Acres and Eli Templeton coming into the side.