Scrappy Affair at SCG as St Kilda Secure 14-Point Victory Over Sydney

Saints triumph over Swans in a scrappy game

St Kilda secured their position in the AFL top eight with a 14-point victory over the Sydney Swans at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Despite Lance Franklin’s milestone 350th match, it was Jack Sinclair who shone for the Saints, with 32 disposals and seven clearances. The Swans were down two co-captains in Callum Mills and Luke Parker, who were both out due to injury. James Rowbottom and Chad Warner stepped up in their absence, but the Swans were unable to maintain their lead, allowing the Saints to come from behind and claim the win.

Wilkie keeps a tight leash on Franklin

The Saints’ key defender Callum Wilkie was tasked with stopping Franklin in his tracks. Although Franklin made his presence felt with two goals during the game, Wilkie did an exceptional job of clamping down on him when it mattered most, preventing him from having the significant impact that the Swans needed him to have.

Dan Butler tackle causes concern

The Saints will be anxiously awaiting the outcome of a review of a Dan Butler tackle on Nick Blakey in the third quarter. Blakey was subbed out of the game due to concussion, potentially putting a spotlight on the tackle and Butler’s behaviour during the game.

Editorial: A scrappy game, but a win is a win

While it was not the prettiest of games with a high level of scrappiness from both teams, the Saints will be pleased with their win, and it will only further cement their position in the top eight. It’s a testament to their ability to stay focused and play to their strengths, even when the game gets tough.

Advice: Hard work pays off

The Saints’ win is a reminder that sometimes success is not about being the most skilled or talented team, but about being willing to put in the hard work and consistently showing up to play. Upholding discipline even in games that are not going as planned is essential, and it is what allowed the Saints to come from behind and achieve victory.