Just ask Koroit full-back Tim McPherson.

The three-time Saints premiership player said their full-ground defensive pressure was the catalyst for conceding just 20 goals in their past five Hampden league matches.

“It starts with our forwards. They are putting really good pressure on and our midfielders’ work rate is second-to-none, so it’s easier to defend from our point of view,” he said.

McPherson, 25, is forming a solid back six alongside Damian O’Connor, Lachie Rhook, Tim Martin, Dallas Mooney and Todd McLean.

“We are talking the best match up. I am predominantly full-back but if I can find myself further up the ground,” he said.

“We rotate a few blokes across the half-back flank like most teams but it’s steady and is working well.”

McPherson is an account at Wannon Water and is used to dealing with numbers.

He is happy the Saints’ defensive pressure is paying off on the scoreboard – Koroit has kicked 92 goals in its past five matches.

“You always have moments in games and seasons when you’re defending really well and not getting the reward at the other end but the moment we’re kicking goals,” the former Panmure backman said.

The Dennington-based McPherson, who is engaged to partner Bridget Roache with whom he shares five-month-old son Louie, said Koroit was ready for a sterner test against Port Fairy on Saturday.

McPherson said the top-of-the-table clash at Victoria Park would challenge the Saints’ structures and work rate.

“It’s been one-sided the last few weeks so it will be good to have a good contest,” he said.

“They’re a good side we respect and we expect to meet them later in the year (come finals).”