After a convincing win against West Coast Eagles in Perth on Sunday afternoon, Ross Lyon was pleased with the effort shown by the boys, who came from behind in the second half.

Speaking at his weekly press conference earlier today, Lyon said; “We played some good football (on Sunday). We were disappointed to have lost the Essendon game, but there was still a lot we did right.”

“I think we took those positives into the West Coast game, and when we were challenged we really dug deep and played some of our best football for the year. “

Pressed early in the game, the Saints were able to overcome the Eagles through a new-look forward set up with the introduction of Rhys Stanley, playing his first game for the side.

“I am always proud of the group when the give a real supreme effort. To go to Subiaco, at any time, is always challenging, and I thought it was a great victory.

“I think a lot of people were happy to see him (Rhys) play. He really stood up early and structurally allowed us to keep our defence and midfield together, so he was exciting.”

Facing Adelaide at Etihad Stadium this weekend, the Saints can expect to see the Crows come out full of pride and emotion after the recent announcement that their captain, Simon Goodwin, will retire at the end of the 2010 season.

“Adelaide will certainly rebound. McLeod was at his best and Goodwin has just announced his retirement. Porplyzia, amongst others, have found some recent form so it is certainly going to be a real challenge, and one we are excited about.”

“Goodwin has been a great player and one that I’ve watched for a long period of time. He’s a special player. They’re a proud group (Adelaide) and have been under some real pressure recently, so I think it sets up a really good clash.”

Sitting fifth on the ladder brings the Saints only four points behind table leaders, despite suffering a couple of recent losses.

“Certainly we haven’t enjoyed the previous few weeks. We didn’t shy away from the fact that we’ve been struggling for form.” Lyon said.

But Lyon further explained; “At the end of the day we’re 6 - 3 and right in the mix so we’ve got a good opportunity to progress and push forward.”

Standing up over in the west was Saints vice-Captain Lenny Hayes, who has been a remarkable leader with the group in recent weeks, and racked up 35 disposals at Subiaco.

“Leaders at the end of the day have to stand up, and clearly Lenny has done that, as did a number of other players in the leadership group. He’s a very good player and has led the group over some adversity.”

The future of the Saints is certainly looking bright with the recent inclusions of a number of young players. In addition to Stanley who made his debut over the weekend, Nick Heyne has played the last two games for the Club and young ruckman Ben McEvoy stood up with two goals on Sunday.

“To take a second and first game player over there (to Perth) was a fantastic effort. We feel like we’re bringing on some younger players, which will stand us in good stead.”

“Certainly there’s some vibrancy and enthusiasm about where we are headed, and it gives us confidence through our actions.”