ST KILDA and the Western Bulldogs will both be out to stay in touch with the top eight, and at the same time silence their critics, when the inconsistent duo open the round on Thursday night.

The Saints surged home with six straight goals against Greater Western Sydney but would be well aware that they left themselves with too much to do in their third narrow loss for the season.

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Ross Lyon's men have dropped to a 2-3 record and need to start finding more wins against opponents around the same mark to keep pace with the top eight.

The Bulldogs failed to make the most of their chances before being brushed aside by Essendon in what quickly turned into a demoralising defeat.

They have an ideal opportunity to respond against a fellow top-eight hopeful, and perhaps even put to bed the uncertainty over whether they are playing for finals or the future this season.

Star Bulldogs forward Jamarra Ugle-Hagan (personal reasons) will miss the clash, while All-Australian Caleb Daniel has again been overlooked by coach Luke Beveridge.

Rory Lobb, Riley Garcia and James Harmes have returned for the Dogs, with Tom Liberatore (concussion protocols) and Oskar Baker (omitted) joining Ugle-Hagan on the sidelines.

The Saints will be without their own key forward, with Max King a confirmed out due to a knee injury, with Zak Jones coming back into the side.

St Kilda v Western Bulldogs at Marvel Stadium, 7.30pm AEST

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SUBSTITUTES
St Kilda: Dan Butler
Western Bulldogs: Ryley Sanders