ST KILDA has turned to renowned tackling expert John Donehue as it looks to arrest its lacklustre start to the season. 

AFL.com.au understands Donehue's sessions started just prior to the Saints' round 13 win over Gold Coast, before a second consecutive win over Melbourne on Sunday.

After a winless stretch of 11 matches, St Kilda's 'pressure factor' has increased from 17th to eighth in the competition in their past two matches, according to Champion Data.

Speaking after the shock win over the Demons, coach Alan Richardson said the Saints wouldn't sit on their hands for the final eight games with finals out of the equation.

"We had a break after the Gold Coast game and identified some areas that we need to get better at, we can't afford to just limp to the line," Richardson said.

"We really need to stand for something and contest is one of those, making sure you're strong, aggressive and physical and that's a real strength of Melbourne's."

Paddy McCartin tackles Harrison Petty on the weekend. Picture: AFL Photos

Donehue, an international Jiu Jitsu champion, has previously spent time at Moorabbin over a number of pre-seasons.

Known for his intensity in the tackling space, Donehue also spent time as a bodyguard for Nelson Mandela.

Currently employed as a defensive consultant at NRL club Melbourne Storm, Donehue has also spent time with North Melbourne, Port Adelaide, Hawthorn, Geelong, Carlton and Essendon.