Brad Fisher

On a midwinter’s night in what was effectively a dead rubber, the best that could be hoped for was a close match with some big highlights. Neither brief was filled. Having the roof closed was a small mercy at Etihad Stadium for the 33,780 fans. On form this match would almost certainly be a bankable win to the Saints.  In the end it was so, and no mercy was shown to the Blues on field. St Kilda won the toss and kicked to the Lockett end in what seems like a formality in the windless conditions. Carlton tonight were wearing their dirty grey clash strip with the curious fake pockets on their shorts.

Each year, ahead of the national draft, players delisted from one club are allowed to train with other clubs in the hope that they will find a new home. Second-tier players are also granted permission to train with AFL clubs to show their wares.

With the first official list lodgement due at the end of October, several clubs have culled their lists to make room for new players gained during trade week and also at draft time. As of mid-October, the following clubs have made changes.

Sydney's Nick Malceski can be considered an AFL pioneer. Several years ago, he wrecked his knee late in the season and was facing a year on the sidelines until a new procedure came along. The LARS system, which uses synthetic fibers to create tissue, saw Malceski back on the field after just four months.