Kelly played half the season in reserve grade over the first 10 weeks, but has since settled at senior level, being named in the club’s best in three successive games from round 11.

“I guess I struggled at the start because I started in the twos and was then up and down,” he said.

“Once you start to play a few games you become more consistent and find some form, which is good.”

Kelly will look to celebrate his 22^nd birthday on Sunday with another strong performance at home against Myrtleford on Saturday.

The qualifying final-bound outfit has a number of players who could play seniors, so there’s little chance of relaxing for the bulk of the squad.

Myrtleford has made only the one change with rugged midfielder Elijah Wales returning from VFL duties.

The Saints boast the four wins with their only realistic chance of another against Wodonga (away) in the final round.