Labeling something as “certainty” in any sport is full of dangers.
But we will try to find some anyway.
Here’s what we consider certain for Friday night’s clash between Carlton and St Kilda:
Walsh has more than 25 possessions
Sam Walsh will have 25 or more discards in this big Friday night clash against St Kilda.
The star midfielder was at his best against Fremantle last week, amassing 40 rebounds at 85 per cent, 543 yards won and six steals – outrageous figures!
The last time Walsh played for the Saints he accumulated 32 touchdowns, and will come very close to that tonight in what is a game that defines the season for both sides.
Silvagni to throw at least one goal
Jack Silvagni is averaging one goal per game so far this season.
With clubs investing so much time in Harry McKay and Charlie Curnow (rightly so), Silvagni lets him play with the third-best opposition defender.
Carlton’s attacking mark will put pressure on St Kilda’s defense, and with that, Silvagni should be able to hit the scoreboard.
Silvagni collected a maximum of 25 discards and scored a goal the last time he played against the Saints.
Hugh Fitzpatrick
Subscribe to the SEN YouTube channel to see the latest videos!
Steele will have more than 20 spills and more than 3 permits
A big Jack Steele night is required if St Kilda wants to win the midfield battle.
The success of Steele’s return from injury was positive on a dirty night for the Saints in last week’s defeat to Sydney.
The Saints pattern picked up 29 discards, 10 tackles and eight discards in their first game after a shoulder injury.
Steele will have to be at his best against a quality Carlton midfielder.
King to throw more than 2 goals
After a quiet start last week, Max King will look to bounce back against the Blues.
King cut a frustrated figure when the Swans kept him goalless for the first time this season.
St Kilda’s ball movement and the 50 front innings didn’t help the striker’s cause, which coach Brett Ratten addressed after the game.
If the Saints can order the use of the ball, King will pose a major threat.
Alex Zaia