Lenny’s return softens Harvey blow

THERE is only one Robert Harvey.

Since he made his debute for the Saints in 1988, he has rarely seen form slumps in 349 games that have included a couple of Grand Finals and two seasons netting Brownlow Medals, as well as various club awards.

Unfortunately, he has also seen injury.

The ping in his left hamstring during the first quarter of the 46-point loss to Fremantle at Subiaco Oval on Friday night was felt by all St Kilda supporters watching the game.

When he will return for his 350th game is still yet to be determined, but coach Ross Lyon said: ``It doesn’t look good.’’

While one midfield great nursed his injury on the sideline, another Saints on-baller was working his way back into a game he had been sidelined from for three weeks.

Saints skipper Lenny Hayes took his place in the side against Freo after many critics had claimed it was too early and suggested coach Ross Lyon would make a late change to the side.

But there is only one Lenny Hayes also.

Hayes broke his collarbone during the Saints 53-point loss to Port Adelaide at AAMI Stadium in round five.

On Friday night, another player was returning from a collarbone injury, Freo’s Brett Peake, but he had been out of the game since round two.

Saints football manager Ken Sheldon said after the loss to Fremantle that Hayes’ ability to return earlier than expected was a tribute to the club’s leader.

``It’s a credit to his recuperative powers and a credit to the Saints medical team,’’ Sheldon said. ``He (Hayes) had a cracked collarbone that was plated.

``He has come back a lot quicker than was expected or anticipated.’’

Hayes, 27, had 15 possessions in the first half and was instrumental, along with Nick Dal Santo and Nick Riewoldt in getting the Saints back into the game after Fremantle had kicked away early.

Sheldon said Hayes’ performance was no surprise.

``It is another example of his professionalism and his great output,’’ Sheldon said.

``(To the team he brings) leadership, quality, class – I could rattle them off all night. He is fabulous and one of the club captains.

``That’s why he is so highly regarded at the Saints.’’

Lyon rotated his players late in the game to give David Armitage and Jayden Attard some ``valuable’’ ground time so Hayes finished with 21 possessions in an impressive return.

Although the Saints have lost consecutive games, against Hawthorn and Fremantle, the imminent return of several players in the next couple of weeks and the growing fitness of Hayes should allow Harvey, 35, as much time as he needs to be ready for his 350th game.