The former Saint has been in stellar form across the Kyabram backline this year, and leads the league in average intercept marks per game, amassing a total of 88 across his 15 games — 31 more than his nearest opponent in Mansfield’s Jack Hutchins.
When the two sides met in round four, Smith had the game on his terms down back, chalking up 11 intercept marks, four rebound 50s and four contested marks.
Benalla were outmuscled inside 50, registering a sole forward-50 mark to Kyabram’s 19.
It comes as no surprise that Kyabram leads the league in intercept marks with 262 and contested marks with 230.
These feats help the Bombers turn defence into offence at the drop of a hat, and Smith’s 70 per cent efficiency by foot is a big factor in how readily they set up their attacking play.
The Bombers source the majority of their scoring from turnovers this way, and made Benalla pay in this area in round four.
Kyabram sourced 78 points from turnover, 46 of those coming from midfield turnover, while the other 30 were sourced in its forward 50.
Whether it’s changing the way they send the ball into attack or bringing their clanger tally down (Benalla lead the Bombers 31 to 22), the Saints could help shape the game in these areas this weekend.
The Benalla coaching staff must also have a plan in place to limit Smith’s dominance on Saturday; if not, another blowout score may well be on the cards.
At a glance
Intercept marks season average
Lachlan Smith (Kyabram) 5.9
Jack Hutchins (Mansfield) 3.8
Lachie Devine (Mooroopna) 3.2
Andrew Riordan (Shepparton Swans) 3.1
Lachlan Waite (Seymour) 2.9
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