Tom LEE – 10 matches, 610 pts @ 61
Only just counting as a first-year player for the Saints, LEE showed some real promise this year, his immaculate form at kicking for goal a real highlight. Although he never really set the world on fire, his three best scores were 89, 91 and 97 – not too bad for a dedicated forward. With a little work on his strength and pace over the preseason, LEE could be a big improver in 2014.
Most Improved Player
Jack STEVEN - 22 matches, 2,419 @ 110
No contest here. STEVEN was a revelation this year, his second-half of the season superb – reflected in his deserving win of the Saints B & F. Super consistent, STEVEN’s worst score for the year was 78 (three times) however his three best scores were elite – 150, 157 and 161. It appears his skills have started to catch up with his blistering pace – this guy could win the Brownlow in a year or two. Is it wrong to say he’s Judd-like?
Leigh MONTAGNA - 21 matches @ 115
Only just edging out fellow stalwart Nick RIEWOLDT, Joey gets the nod simply because less than 2% pf SC teams had him – making him even more unique and valuable. Returning to form in 2013, MONTAGNA only had 6 games under 100, whilst his last 7 games were incredible – 145, 122, 128, 129, 80, 154 and 165. Wow. Surprised a lot of people this year, but the question is can he keep it up in 2014?
Worst Buy
Arryn SIPOSS - 9 matches @ 50
Perhaps the Saints’ biggest disappointment in 2013, SIPOSS was billed over the preseason as the guy to replace GODDARD in the quarterback/utility role. Unfortunately he failed miserably, his lack of pace and perceived laziness a real problem. A score of 96 in round 1 got everyone excited, but that was as good as it got. Really needs to work hard over the off season if he is to make it in the big league.
2014 Prospects
Tom CURREN
Love the way this hard nut goes about his footy, and he was a big improver in the second half of the season. Finished the year off with scores of 109, 76 and 128 – with the two tons being against Sydney and Fremantle. This kid can play.
Tom HICKEY
Another to show better form as the year went on, HICKEY came to the club with high hopes and looks to finally be showing something. Very mobile, he could rival McEVOY for the top job in 2014 – or at least be a more involved part of an impressive strength/mobility ruck combo for the Saints.
Spencer WHITE
Spencer who you say? WHITE was kept in the twos this year to develop physically, but there are huge wraps on him. A key position forward whose mobility is his strength, WHITE has already been compared to Buddy FRANKLIN in the way he plays the game. Big shoes to fill, but maybe 2014 will be the beginning of that journey.
Most Prolific
1. Jack STEVEN – 2419 @ 110
2. Leigh MONTAGNA - 2410 @ 115
3. Nick RIEWOLDT (F) - 2208 @ 105
4. Nick Dal SANTO - 2104 @ 97
5. Ben McEVOY (R) - 2053 @ 93
6. Jarryn GEARY - 1677 @ 80 (Top Defender)