What's in their favour? The Saints have the profile of a team set to seriously challenge in 2008, good fortune (which has been an issue) permitting. The class at the top end is well-documented, Nick Riewoldt, Nick Dal Santo, Justin Koschitzke, Luke Ball, Lenny Hayes, Leigh Montagna and the ageless Robert Harvey the pick. But that's now supplemented by real depth via the recruitment of established senior faces in Steven King, Charlie Gardiner, Adam Schneider and Sean Dempster. St Kilda came home with a rush in 2007, a trend that should continue into this season.
What's not? The glut of senior players whose previous season had been severely disrupted by injury could take time to regain their full capacities, Brendon Goddard returning from a knee reconstruction, and Max Hudghton's continuing soft tissue injuries of particular concern. Midfield class notwithstanding, the Saints could probably still use some more dash, and the fitness concerns raised by another spate of injuries and some disturbing late fade-outs last season may not be alleviated overnight.
Stepping into the spotlight? Clinton Jones impressed in half-a-dozen games off the rookie list last season and has sparkled in pre-season action. Likewise Jarryn Geary, another upgraded from rookie status. Versatile tall Sam Gilbert came on rapidly in 2007 and could be even more handy now at either end. At a more senior level, former Cat Charlie Gardiner looks set to respond to the faith shown in him by his new club as a hard-working forward, while namesake Michael Gardiner has finally thrown off persistent injury to form an impressive-looking ruck tandem with King.
In their wildest dreams? The same dream the Saints have dreamt every year since their token 1966 flag, but not nearly so far-fetched in 2008. St Kilda's depth is arguably now second only to Geelong, its plague of injuries hopefully at an end, and its star class large enough to give this premiership a real shake.
The reality? No reason it shouldn't read pretty much as above, given even an appropriate amount more luck than in the past three years. There will be setbacks along the way, but there seems enough contingencies now to withstand the various twists and turns of fate.
ROBERT WALLS 2nd Stung by last year's non-finals appearance and with wholesale changes to the support staff, the Saints will be desperate to deliver. Now Riewoldt, Hayes, Koschitzke, Dal Santo and Sam Fisher are in their prime, and with much needed ruck support coming from Steven King and Michael Gardiner, the prospects are indeed bright.
ROHAN CONNOLLY 2nd Been said a lot before, but this really could be the Saints year to challenge for that elusive second flag. A core of stars has been supplemented by some strong senior recruiting giving St Kilda enviable depth and flexibility. Big chance.
