ST KILDA will hope to add another tall forward to an already imposing attack after Sam Gilbert impressed in Friday's NAB Challenge win over the Western Bulldogs at Visy Park.

Gilbert, who established himself last season as a defender, booted two goals to be the most effective forward in a scrappy match played in hot, windy conditions, which the Saints won 8.13 (61) to 5.5 (35).

Justin Koschitzke also made good position and took several strong marks in his first game of the 2009 campaign, but let himself down with poor kicking.

The most pleasing factor for the two clubs, both preliminary finalists last season, last year, was the return of several key players.

Lenny Hayes and Steven Baker played their first games of the pre-season for St Kilda, while the Bulldogs welcomed back Jason Akermanis, Ryan Griffen, Mitch Hahn and Robert Murphy.

St Kilda coach Ross Lyon was encouraged by the agility of Gilbert, who he said could complement Koschitzke and captain Nick Riewoldt as marking targets in attack.

"If we can team defend pretty well it takes the pressure off another legitimate tall and we'll be able to (play him forward)," Lyon said.

He was also pleased by the return of Baker, who played only two games in 2008 because of suspension and persistent knee troubles.

"He's a 28-year-old (best and fairest) winner, he's a hard nut and opposition forwards probably don't like playing on him," he said.

"He's had a rough road with injury and suspension, but to see him come back and have that competitive spirit ... he's a really important player for us, so we're keen to graduate him through and get him into the season."

Riewoldt is yet to play this summer after knee surgery, but the Saints are hopeful he could get through a half against Richmond in Shepparton next weekend.

The Bulldogs started the better on Friday, but their trademark skill was noticeably absent, and coach Rodney Eade was at a loss to explain why.

"Normally a coach in this position, you've got all the psychological reasons and we can wheel them out to make excuses," he said.

"I know it was a little bit swirly today, the wind, but it (the lack of skill) was lamentable and most of the skills were not under a lot of pressure."

Eade said getting some experienced players back was the only positive to draw from the game.

Bulldog half-back Lindsay Gilbee fainted at half time because of the heat but was fine after the match.

The Bulldogs play the Swans in western Sydney next weekend.