ST KILDA will use the NAB Challenge to trial a two-pronged ruck attack, with forward Tom Lee also shaping as a pinch-hit option after a standout pre-season.
With No.1 ruckman Tom Hickey sidelined for the Saints' first NAB Challenge match against the Brisbane Lions on Saturday, American rookie Jason Holmes has been selected to support Billy Longer in the ruck.
Last season, coach Alan Richardson preferred to play one genuine ruckman with support from versatile tall Rhys Stanley, but the preferred structure could change in 2015 with Stanley's departure to Geelong.
Richardson said developing his ruckmen's ability to have an impact when forward was the key to playing dual big men.
"We certainly think [our ruckmen] have the potential to go forward and do a bit of damage in terms of marking the ball and giving us a really strong contest," the coach said.
"We'll have a look at that tomorrow at times … with 'Holmesy' and with Billy.
"Josh Bruce and Tommy Lee both have the attributes to be able to go into the ruck for us, so we'll have a look at those two through the NAB Challenge."
Richardson said he was looking forward to watching Lee in the pre-season competition after a strong summer.
The 24-year-old hasn't been able to cement a spot in the Saints' forward line despite repeated opportunities, but Richardson suggested he was better prepared to emerge as a regular in 2015.
"There's no doubt Tommy's had a really good run at it," he said.
"He hasn't missed a beat on the training track, he's worked hard and he looks different, he looks like he's bulked up.
"He's certainly running with much more power on the training track, our numbers suggest that, so I'm really looking forward to watching Tommy strut his stuff."
Richardson has also been encouraged by Holmes's form this pre-season, with the American rookie doing "everything right". His opportunities during the season proper will likely be dependent on the Saints' long-term injury list.
"His attitude and commitment to his footy and to his footy club and his mates has been outstanding, and if that continues I've got no doubt he'll get there," Richardson said.
"At this stage Hickey and Longer would still be in front; Lewis Pierce is another young player who has some room to move but is heading in the right direction."
Senior midfielder Leigh Montagna will captain the Saints on Saturday, given his long association with skipper Nick Riewoldt, whose sister Madeleine lost her brave, five-year battle with a rare blood disease this week.
The Saints honoured Madeleine's wishes on Friday, training in Australian Red Cross Blood Service tops to raise awareness of registering as a bone marrow donor and donating blood.
"It's the wish of the family, so we'll certainly support that wish," Richardson said.
"The players wore the shirts today in consultation with 'Rooey' and the family, and we'll do whatever we can."
Richardson said the club would speak with Riewoldt next week, after Madeleine's funeral, adding he would return to the club whenever he was ready.
