Carlton will be looking to snap its seven-game losing streak when it comes up against the side that initiated it in Sunday’s clash against St Kilda at the MCG.

The Blues sat at 5-6 before meeting the Saints in Round 12, but suffered a 32-point loss in front of a near-capacity crowd at Etihad Stadium.

Despite the Saints reigning supreme that day, coach Alan Richardson said he expected Carlton to present a sizeable challenge in tomorrow’s return fixture.

“They’ve (Carlton) played quality teams in recent times and been more than competitive,” Richardson told the media on Wednesday.

“They’ve been in the game really late so we expect them to be really strong.

“They’re playing with real energy and spirit and understanding and that presents some challenges for any team.”

Carlton and St Kilda have turned to experience on the back of losses to Hawthorn and North Melbourne respectively, with the Blues regaining Dale Thomas and Andrew Walker and Sam Fisher returning to the Saints’ line-up.

Fisher hasn’t played since Round 10, while star forward Nick Riewoldt will also face the Blues for the first time this season.

Carlton will be looking to put more pressure on the Saints this time round, having allowed St Kilda’s youngsters to do as they pleased in Round 12.

Seb Ross led the disposal count with 33, while Jack Steven and Jade Gresham combined for five goals.

Tim Membrey booted five goals of his own and Tom Hickey ensured he got the better of Matthew Kreuzer in the crucial ruck battle.

Blues coach Brendon Bolton said he was expecting another physical contest.

“I know what to expect from last time. They (Saints) were really physical in and around the contest,” Bolton said.

“‘Richo’ is a good coach, he’s got them well drilled and the youngsters are now progressing with a number of games under their belt.” 

Spectators can expect clean ball use from Carlton and St Kilda on the wide expanses of the MCG, with the teams ranked third and first respectively for disposal efficiency.

Despite having 63 more disposals than the Saints in Round 12, the Blues weren’t as efficient, being forced sideways and backwards by St Kilda’s enormous pressure.

Should Carlton exact revenge in Walker’s final game tomorrow, it will mark the Blues’ first win over the Saints at the MCG since 1998.