SUMMARY

St Kilda was beaten in the contest against Adelaide on Saturday in a game where the players also had to deal with losing Nick Riewoldt to a brutal concussion in the first quarter. While the scoreboard showed a 46-point loss, the Saints again started well on the back of their remarkable come-from-behind win over the Western Bulldogs the previous week. Meanwhile, footy continues to flourish in the west with the Eagles second on the ladder. They've won five games – the latest a 92-point flogging of Gold Coast – and are second to crosstown rivals Fremantle despite a spate of early injuries to key players.

WHERE AND WHEN: Etihad Stadium, Saturday, May 23, 1.45pm AEST

TV AND RADIO: Click here for broadcast guide 

LAST FIVE TIMES

R14, 2014, West Coast 15.13 (103) d St Kilda 10.10 (70) at Etihad Stadium
R3, 2014, West Coast 12.11 (83) d St Kilda 8.10 (58) at Subiaco Oval
R11, 2013, West Coast 12.12 (84) d St Kilda 11.14 (80) at Etihad Stadium
R8, 2012, West Coast 18.13 (121) d St Kilda 13.13 (91) at Subiaco Oval
R17, 2011, St Kilda 13.4 (82) d West Coast 9.7 (61) at Etihad Stadium

THE SIX POINTS

1. Last year's Brownlow medallist Matt Priddis was the difference between the sides last season. He picked up three votes in their round three clash and two in round 14.

2. Priddis is in the type of form that could see him cause the Saints some trouble again. The Eagles' midfielder is ranked equal third in the AFLCA Champion Player of the Year award and is in the top 10 in six statistical categories.

3. The Saints were brave two weeks ago against the Dogs, but they still lead the competition for clangers with an average of over 52 per game.

4. In comparison, the impressive Eagles are ranked second in the League for disposal efficiency at a rate of 75.6 per cent.

5. The Saints' backline could be in for a tough afternoon with the Eagles scoring heavily this year – they're ranked second for points per game and have been the most accurate in front of goal.

6. Josh Bruce has proved a revelation in attack this season. The Saints' forward has kicked 23 goals and shot up the Official AFL Player Ratings from 423rd to 355th since round one.

IT'S A BIG WEEK FOR …
Tim Membrey.
Omitted last week but a chance to be recalled with Nick Riewoldt to miss, the former Sydney Swan could have the chance to translate the touch he found in the VFL – three goals against Frankston – to a better showing at AFL level alongside the in-form Bruce.

PREDICTION: West Coast by 33 points.