RICHMOND needed an eight-goal haul from Jack Riewoldt and enormous character to post its first win over St Kilda in eight years at Docklands on Friday night.

The Tigers led for most of the night, but the Saints threatened to produce a remarkable comeback victory when they came from 20 points down early in the last quarter to hit the lead with four straight goals.

But Richmond responded with three goals in time-on - two to Riewoldt and one to youngster Brandon Ellis - to surge clear and win 18.13 (121) to 16.17 (113) in front of 49,337 fans.

Riewoldt's haul continued his form resurgence, after he booted six in last weekend's win over Hawthorn.

It took him to top place in the Coleman Medal race with 31 goals for the season.

Read the full match report at ABC news online.