The Saints travelled west having lost three of their previous four matches. Their season seemed in parlous shape when they trailed by almost three goals after the main break, but the Saints responded magnificently, playing some of their best footy in weeks to come away with a 35-point win.
Lyon said he believed the team could carry its momentum into this week’s clash with Adelaide.
“I’m always proud when the group gives really supreme effort. To go to Subiaco at any time, let alone when you’re fighting for form with some key players out, is always challenging and I thought it was a great victory,” he said on Wednesday.
“Confidence builds on actions and our actions were of a very strong group, mentally. It stands us in good stead but Adelaide will certainly rebound. [Andrew] McLeod is back to his best and [Simon] Goodwin has announced his retirement. [Jason] Porplyzia and those sort of guys have found form,” he said.
“We’re 6-3, we’re right in the mix and we’ve got every opportunity to progress and push forward.”
Half-back Raphael Clarke was one of the Saints’ best. His day was highlighted by two courageous marking contests in the third quarter.
Clarke has been in and out of the St Kilda line-up this year but his coach said the top-10 draft pick from 2003 was starting to play to his potential.
“I always rate Raph. His form had slipped a little bit but I’m on record where Raph sits in the team,” Lyon said.
“It was nothing beyond the normal expectation for Raph but certainly he played quite well.”
Youngsters Ben McEvoy and Rhys Stanley both spent time up forward against the Eagles.
While pleased with the output from the two tall forwards - in particular McEvoy - Lyon was careful not to pump him up as direct replacements for the injured Nick Riewoldt.
“I don’t know if he’s a new Nick. Nick is one of the greatest Saints ever but for Ben Mac it was a breakout game for him, four contested marks and a couple of goals,” he said.
“More importantly I thought his ruck work was really good. It highlights it takes time for the big guys. We feel like we’re bringing on some younger players which should stand us in good stead.”
