The former Demon was involved in an off-the-ball incident at the 16 minute mark of the first term, where he appeared to strike Geelong midfielder Jed Bews. Video evidence will be reviewed closely at AFL Victoria headquarters on Monday.

Howe, who crossed over from Melbourne at the end of last season after playing 100 AFL matches, has struggled to regain his usual high-flying flair since overcoming a pre-season injury.

He responded to gather some touch in the second term to kick his only goal of the match, playing on the half-forward line in the Pies' 50-point win over the Cats.

But even if Howe is cleared from the striking charge, his lacklustre form is unlikely to warrant selection against St Kilda next Saturday and it appears more likely that he will be sent to gather some more touch against Port Melbourne in the VFL Pies' season opener next Sunday.

Conversely, Jesse White was one to put his hand up for a senior recall after a dominant performance in a new defensive role.

His third term was scintillating, when he snared three strong contested marks and provided some solid rebound with purpose.

The former Swan has added another string to his bow, given that he lacked confidence last season as an attacking ruckman, particularly in front of goal.

Tyson Goldsack, who appears to have shrugged off knee tendonitis that plagued him over the pre-season, will also be a chance to return against the Saints.

He spent the first term and much of the second half up forward, kicking two goals for the match including one after a forced Geelong turnover from the enormous forward pressure.

Athletic midfielder Matthew Goodyear will also press hard to make his senior AFL debut against the Saints. Again, he was strong and disciplined in the clinches.

Alan Toovey and Jonathon Marsh were other relentless contributors in defence, while Mason Cox continued his excellent development as a ruckman and forward.

Geelong forward Daniel Menzel kicked two goals in the opening half for the Cats, while Bews, Tom Ruggles and Josh Cowan were among the better performers.

Melbourne could look to midfielder Jack Trengove for next Sunday's clash against North Melbourne after he starred in the first half in a VFL practice match for the Casey Scorpions in their 29-point win over the Box Hill Hawks.

Trengove, who has recovered from a serious foot injury, collected 18 disposals, eight marks and kicked two goals in the first half – before being well held in the second half and finishing with 22.

Alex Neal-Bullen is also in line for a recall after collecting 36 disposals, while Christian Petracca could also launch into a much-anticipated AFL debut after standing out with 20 touches. Jack Grimes had 19 touches.

St Kilda midfielder Darren Minchington kicked five goals in Sandringham's 22-point loss to Williamstown. Blake Acres collected 27 touches and Tom Curren had 26.

Western Bulldogs youngster Bailey Dale kicked seven goals in Footscray's 131-point thrashing of the Werribee Tigers.