Saints head to Lions' Den for first time since 2019

ST MARY’S co-coach Glenn Keast has credited his side’s depth as a major reason for its gradual rise back to the top of the Geelong Football League (GFL) ladder.

The 11-win, two-loss Saints will take to Leopold Memorial Park for the first time since 2019 when it puts a six-game winning streak on the line against Leopold in Round 14.

“We know Leopold is desperate for a win as they chase a finals sport of its own, but it’s also a good chance for us to get a feel of the ground before GFL finals are held there in the deeper weeks,” Keast said.

“Leopold was knocked over against Colac last weekend, but prior to that, their form was probably as good as anyone’s, so I expect a good hit out between both sides on Saturday.”

St Mary’s Jarryd Garner has enjoyed a strong season in 2023 so far.

St Mary’s sixth win on the trot came against Geelong West last week following one of the side’s best quarters to date under Keast and co-coach Travis Robertson.

St Mary’s kicked nine majors to outscore the Giants 62-26 in the third term on its way to a 19.21.135 to 9.11.65 win over Geelong West at Anthony Costa Oval. Ten Saints tagged the scoresheet, led by Dion Johnstone’s four goals.

Two-time Mathieson Medallist Harry Benson returned to the side against the Giants, while Sam Dobson’s long-awaited return to the squad was extended another week as he recovers from a wrist injury.

“We’re confident Sam will play this week, but to be fair we’ve been saying that the last few weeks, but he’s fairly confident to be right this time which would be a big inclusion for us,” Keast said. Scott Selwood was unavailable due to coaching duties with the Geelong Cats playing in Adelaide last weekend but is up for selection this week.

St Mary’s in a huddle with Harry Benson (front) in the water-boy kit two weeks ago against St Joseph’s. Benson, a member of Geelong’s VFL side, played last week against Geelong West.

Joe Maishman was also managed last weekend against the Giants as he fully recovers from undergoing surgery at the start of the season, but Keast said the former VFL product will return to take on the Lions.

The Saints return to Kardinia Park next weekend in a top-of-the-table clash against Darcy Lang’s Colac outfit, who sit level on points with the two-time reigning premiers.

Leopold sits in fourth place with nine wins and four losses.