Saints won’t relax in Ablett’s absence

ST Kilda has vowed not to be complacent against an injury-riddled Gold Coast today at Etihad Stadium.

Saints coach Alan Richardson (right) said while the plan to combat Gary Ablett could be shelved, the focus quickly shifted to the hungry Suns among the seven forced changes.

“Ablett is a fantastic player and the focus of most teams,” Richardson said.

“When you come up against a player of that calibre, it (Ablett out) does change things and it can be a challenge to make sure your group gets clarity on what’s expected.

“But we’ve had time to plan and have those conversations.”

Richardson will demand the Saints’ pressure around the ball that held North Melbourne to four goals in the first three quarters last week be repeated against Gold Coast, who won by 40 points in their last meeting at Metricon Stadium in round 15 last season.

“They’re really bold with the way they move the ball and we’ll need to be at our best to slow them down,” he said.