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COLLINGWOOD forward Leon Davis admits he was surprised to be given a grand final reprieve after missing his team’s dominant preliminary final win.

Davis, a member of the Pies’ unsuccessful 2002 and 2003 grand final teams, missed four home and away matches this year through a combination of form and minor leg injuries.

A hamstring twinge last week forced him out of his side’s crushing win over Geelong.

Given his team's superb display last week - and a history of low-key performances in September - there were doubts whether the 203-game veteran would earn a call-up for his third grand final. He admits he wasn't confident of being selected.

“The boys played pretty well last week, so I knew there was a chance I might miss out," he said.

“I suppose I’m fortunate enough to be playing, and hopefully I can contribute tomorrow and we can have a win.”

> AFL Grand Final parade highlights with 17 Magpies speaking on CTV

Davis received notoriety for his performance in the 2002 season decider against the Brisbane Lions where he failed to gain a possession, finishing the day with just three tackles.

Coach Mick Malthouse defended the small forward’s finals record on Friday, and Davis admitted criticism of his past finals performances still burned.

“It does, but Mick’s shown the faith in me to play me,” he said.

“It’s all about the forward pressure with me, and hopefully I can do that tomorrow.”

While an early kick or handpass against the Saints would no doubt help ease the pressure, Davis won’t go into the match focusing on his own numbers.

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Earlier this season he led his club for tackles inside 50 - a stat greatly respected within the club - and he will again try to set the standard in that area against a St Kilda team which, like the Pies, is renowned for trying to pin the opposition in its own defensive half.

"It’s not that important that I get a touch early - probably more that I put some pressure on and get a tackle or two and go from there,” Davis said.

"I’ll go in with a focus on pressure and doing my part for the team

“The body’s fine, I’ve had a good rest and I’ll come in fresh. Hopefully I can contribute tomorrow and put some mass pressure on and kick some goals as well.”