The former Edenhope-Apsley footballer arrived at Victoria Park two years ago ready to play a midfield-forward role.

But the pacy Saint was moved into defence for the 2014 decider, given a shut-down task on dangerous Warrnambool small forward Kurt Lenehan.

It proved a glimpse into the future. Mulraney is now entrenched in the Saints’ miserly back six and ready to play for his second flag in two seasons.

“I was playing in the midfield in the first half of the season but wasn’t playing as well as I could be and I got put down back and I am enjoying it,” he said.

“My pace helps, I am quite quick.

“I like shutting down players – as long as they don’t get the footy I have played well.”

Mulraney, 21, said Koroit mastermind coach Adam Dowie pushed him into defence against Warrnambool 12 months ago.

“Last year in the grand final was my second game ever playing in the back line,” he said.

“It was a bit of a change but I really enjoyed it.”

Mulraney has proven a durable addition to the Saints’ best 21 since arriving at the club. The apprentice plumber has played 19 games in each of his two seasons.

“It’s a lot higher standard of footy. Back home you have to find your own footy,” he said.

“Down here everyone is a lot classier and kicks a lot better.”