Veterans tipped to deliver more

ST KILDA veterans Leigh Montagna and Nick Riewoldt still have big roles to play this season, says Jack Steven.

Montagna, 34 in November, tore his hamstring in the Saints’ loss to Sydney last week and has potentially played his last game in red, white and black.

Riewoldt, 35 in October, is in the midst of a slump and coach Alan Richardson has hinted he is likely to be rested this week.

But Steven believes if the Saints snatch a top-eight spot, and Montagna can recover from his injury, both men have roles to play.

“He, along with Rooey (Nick Riewoldt), is our most experienced finals campaign player, so it would be good to have him up and about,” Steven said. Speaking ahead of his 150th game, Steven, 27, said the Saints would need to reduce the gap between their best and worst footy if the club is to feature in the finals for the first time since 2011.

“We’ve proven we can do it, it’s just about consistency,” Steven said. “The last two weeks have been pretty average, but obviously against Richmond we were pretty good so it’s just about bridging the gap.”