Now he’s a key to the Saints’ Hampden league premiership defence aspirations.

A strong pre-season – his best in years – has proven the impetus for Darmody’s dangerous form.

The former North Warrnambool Eagle has kicked 45 goals from 14 appearances to sit equal fourth on the goalkicking table with one round to play.

Darmody, 29, credits Koroit coach Adam Dowie for his form spike.

“I am a lot fitter than last year and that makes a difference moving around the ground,” he said.

“I made an effort to get to training and I didn’t want to go there and get an easy ride off Adam.

“I told him to get stuck into me. It’s been good – the thing I needed.”

Darmody’s consistency – he has hit the scoreboard in all bar one of his senior games – since he was elevated from the reserves in round four has been one of his strengths.

He has two five-goal hauls to his credit and has kicked four majors on five occasions. 

The bargain recruit is also proving a handy foil for spearhead Sam Dobson, who has booted 50 goals in nine games.

“We are different players. I like to lead up and get the footy and he can out-wrestle anyone,” he said. 

“It’s worked out well.”

Darmody joined the Saints in the pre-season having spent his entire career at the Eagles.

He now feels entrenched at Victoria Park.

“I can’t see myself changing clubs again, I will stick my days at Koroit now and help out as best I can,” Darmody said.

“I needed a fresh start. I wasn’t sure what club I would go to but Adam gave me a buzz and I was still keen to have another year at Hampden league level.”

Koroit has the minor premiership in its keeping.

The Saints host Camperdown in the final round.

Darmody said he was excited to be a part of the Saints’ quest for back-to-back flags.

“It’s really exciting. I have moved this season so to make finals in my first year is good,” he said.

“It’s what you play football for – to win on that last day in September.

“To win a grand final would be fantastic but there is still a long way to go.”