Saints premiership legend dies after health battle

St Kilda premiership legend Kevin Neale has died aged 78 after a long health battle.

Neale played in St Kilda's 1966 premiership team and played all of his 256 career games with the Saints.

St Kilda remembered 'Cowboy' Neale as "a truly beloved figure" in a statement on Sunday morning.

"Renowned for his great physical strength as a footballer, he was also blessed with exceptional skills for a big man which enabled him to play as either a key defender or forward," the statement read.

Kevin Neale at Allan Jeans funeral at the MCG. 20 July 2011. Picture Sebastian Costanzo. The Age.

"Truly a larger than life character in every way, Cowboy was always able to engage with people across various generations."

Neale played a then-club record 256 games and remained involved with the club well after his retirement.

His death comes just a day after AFL icon Ron Barassi's passing, leaving the entire football community in mourning.

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