A Season On the Brink

After six rounds, the Saints have just enough season left to salvage.
They play Carlton on Monday night; the Blues are a good team, but beatable.

With Gwilt back for the first time in five rounds, there will finally be a leader in defense.  Roberton has been good, but that hasn't been enough.  Stanley has played admirably in front of the goal, but I think it's clear he simply does not understand the position yet.  With Gwilt on the field, Stanley can move to half-forward where he'll likely be much more effective.  Of course, Hayes will not be available, which presents a challenge.

What can be said about the season so far?  A few players have consistently played well: Riewoldt, Hayes, Montagna, and Roberton.  That's good, especially since Riewoldt has not been outstanding the last couple seasons.
But what about Milne and Kosi?  Milne's been okay (not great), Kosi has been very disappointing, and both of them have shown some extremely poor judgement that has cost them suspensions.  Scott Watters needs to crack down on this; it's unacceptable.

Several important pieces need to fall into place, though, if St. Kilda is to have any hope of salvaging the season.

Dal Santo needs to get back into form.  He's been all but invisible through six rounds, and it's hurt the Saints' midfield significantly.  The other mid-career players need to start having a greater impact too.  Steven, Fisher, Newnes, McEvoy, Jones, and Armitage.  They've all been pretty meh the entire season.  They don't all need to be stars, but we need to see more possessions, disposals, tackles, and quality kicks to the forward fifty coming from this group.

No more injuries for Hayes.  He's simply too important.  I would also love to see Schneider back in the line-up, and playing well.

The young players need to play consistently.  Stanley, Saad, Milera (when he gets the chance), Siposs, Ross, and Lee have all shown great promise, but can't seem to follow through on expectations.  I realize they're all very young, but to have any chance at a respectable record, these players must start playing better.

So, in summary, the whole team needs to step it up.  Easier said than done, I know.  And not really much of a plan for improvement.
But if they can start clicking, they can do a lot more than they have so far.
And who knows, they could even make the finals.

But it has to start this round.