​​​​​​​​​​​​Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.​

St Kilda edged out GWS by eight points in a tense finish at Marvel Stadium on Sunday, with super recruit Liam Ryan delivering a career best six goal performance to lift the Saints to a 14.12 (96) to 13.10 (88) victory. The result pushes St Kilda into the top 10 and keeps their hopes of a wildcard finals berth alive, while GWS were left frustrated after a late disputed decision in the final minute contributed to a second straight disappointing result following a strong mid season run.

The match swung on key moments in the final quarter, with St Kilda controlling territory and GWS unable to produce their trademark surge from defence.

Ryan delivers career best performance in front of goal

​Liam Ryan was the defining figure of the contest, backing up last week’s five goal performance with an even more dominant display that showcased his aerial strength and finishing ability. After a quiet opening quarter, Ryan exploded into the game with three goals from his first three kicks in the second term.

His influence continued throughout the match, with his movement inside forward 50 repeatedly stretching the GWS defence. He finished with six goals in a performance that underlined his impact since joining St Kilda.

Coaches have emphasised structure around Ryan’s strengths, allowing him to exploit space and present as a leading target. His form has quickly made him one of the most dangerous forwards in the competition in recent weeks.

Saints maintain pressure in finals race

The win strengthens St Kilda’s position in a congested middle of the ladder, with multiple teams battling for wildcard finals qualification. Their ability to secure victories against lower ranked sides has become a key feature of their season.

St Kilda’s forward structure, combined with improved ball movement, allowed them to keep GWS under pressure for long periods, particularly in the final quarter when territory control proved decisive.

Coach Ross Lyon highlighted the importance of system discipline and role clarity, particularly in maximising the impact of new recruits within the team structure.

The Saints will now continue their campaign entirely in Melbourne for the remainder of the season, a scheduling factor that may provide stability during a critical stage of the year.

GWS struggle to replicate recent dominant form

GWS entered the match in strong form following convincing wins over Brisbane and Melbourne in Alice Springs, but were unable to bring the same intensity to Marvel Stadium.

The Giants showed glimpses of their attacking style, particularly through midfield transition, but lacked consistency across four quarters. Their usual rapid movement from defensive half was largely contained by St Kilda’s structure.

Forward line issues also contributed to the result, with key players struggling to impose themselves and the team unable to capitalise on momentum shifts.

Coach Adam Kingsley expressed frustration with aspects of the performance, particularly the inability to control key match ups in defence and sustain pressure in the forward half.

Defensive match ups prove decisive

A key factor in the result was St Kilda’s ability to expose mismatches in the GWS defence. Liam Ryan proved difficult to contain, with adjustments failing to consistently limit his influence.

When Sam Taylor dropped deeper to counter Ryan’s movement, other Saints forwards were able to capitalise, with Cooper Sharman contributing four goals of his own.

This balance of attacking threats stretched the Giants’ defensive structure and prevented them from establishing control at critical stages.

Wanganeen Milera and Hall continue strong seasons

Nasiah Wanganeen Milera once again played a key role for St Kilda, collecting 32 disposals, four clearances and 775 metres gained, while also contributing a goal. His ability to drive the ball forward remains central to the Saints’ transition game.

Midfielder Max Hall also continued his strong form, further enhancing his reputation as one of the club’s emerging stars. His work rate and ability to impact contests across the ground were again on display, including a key running goal that highlighted his endurance and positioning.

Hall’s performances over recent weeks have placed him among the most consistent players in the competition, reinforcing his value as a mid season acquisition.

Finals picture tightens after crucial result

The result leaves GWS outside the top eight wildcard positions on percentage, level on points with St Kilda and North Melbourne in a tightly packed section of the ladder. Gold Coast sit slightly ahead in ninth, maintaining a narrow buffer in the finals race.

With several rounds remaining, the congestion around the middle of the ladder is expected to intensify, with each result carrying significant weight.

St Kilda’s victory ensures they remain firmly in contention, while GWS face growing pressure to rediscover their early season consistency if they are to secure a finals berth.