Every story is made up of the basic elements, the Who, What, When, Where and Why.
The outcome of a football game is no different, and here are some of the key factors that could dictate how the story unfolds in Fremantle’s clash with St Kilda on Saturday.
Who – Nick Riewoldt
Despite not being the focal point of the Saints forward line like years past, Riewoldt is in fine form playing further up the ground. While playing further away from goal may seem like a foreign notion to a forward the calibre of Riewoldt, so far in 2016 he’s averaged a career-high 19.95 disposals a game and has played the role often against Fremantle. Riewoldt’s second-highest single game disposal count (30) came against Freo in 2014 and his 27 career goals against Freo is his third lowest against any opposition in the AFL, with only Gold Coast and GWS being lower. Higher disposals and less goals means the Saints skipper could definitely be a factor on the ball on Saturday.
Lyon's positive 'Ueber' rating
What – Disposal difference
Freo will need to be hard at the ball from the centre bounce to match St Kilda’s impressive ball-winning ability. The Saints are currently ranked in the top four in the AFL in disposals, kicks and handballs and using it to great effect with 74.8% efficiency (5th in the AFL). That being said, the Saints haven’t consistently turned their ownership of the ball into scoring threats and are currently ranked 11th in the AFL in forward entries, and have only won the inside 50 count on two occasions so far in 2016.
When – Start solid, finish strong
Both the first and final quarter will be crucial to the outcome of Saturday’s game. St Kilda haven’t been fast starters or strong finishers, having scored more than four goals only twice in the first and fourth quarters so far in 2016. The Saints have been strong performers leading into and coming out of half time, so getting off to a strong start and continuing for four quarters will be vital on Saturday.
Talking points: Rd 10 v St Kilda
Where – In the middle, contested footy (13th-14th)
As mentioned before, the disposal count could be a telling statistic come the final siren on Saturday, but the game will be won and lost in the contest. Freo and St Kilda rank 13th and 14th respectively in contested possessions in 2016 so there is a good opportunity for Freo to get the ball first and prevent the Saints effective uncontested game. Freo midfielder Michael Walters earlier in the week said the contested football would also play a crucial role in quelling opportunities for the Saints tall forward line.
Why – Freo’s youth, St Kilda out to prove record isn’t everything
Defender Sam Collins will be the team’s second debutant of 2016 and Freo will enter the Saints clash with five players under the 15 games played mark. Freo’s youngsters have impressed so far this year and will look to continue their development against a spritely St Kilda side who have shown glimpses in 2016.
St Kilda will be looking to prove they’re a better team than their 3-6 record indicates. The Saints have had their praises sung for their exciting brand of football and big, young forward line but have stumbled on occasion so far in 2016, and will look to give their season a jump-start against Freo.
