St Kilda AFL coach Alan Richardson has challenged Rhys Stanley to become a consistent key forward and take some pressure off superstar skipper Nick Riewoldt.

Four-time All-Australian Riewoldt struggled against the threat of gun Richmond defender Alex Rance and poor delivery from the Saints’ midfield, kicking one goal in a 44-point loss in their round-15 clash at Etihad Stadium on Saturday.

Stanley contributed two goals, 13 possessions and eight marks in the Saints’ tally of 11.7 (73) while Richmond booted 18.9 (117).

“He’s played 50 games now,” Richardson said when asked about Stanley’s performance.

“He just needs to work hard consistently, to give our defence something to kick to.

“He needs to be able to run the patterns and work for his teammates.

“He had about three or four really solid performances in a row earlier in the year. He’s back in the team now.

“He was positive. He just needs to build on that basically.”

Stanley has played 11 of St Kilda’s 14 games this season, kicking eight goals for the league’s bottom side who are on a nine-match losing streak.

Sub Darren Minchington was another ray of light for the Saints, booting two goals as a second-half substitute.

“He gave us a bit of life,” Richardson said.

“He’s a really clean player. He’s a player who makes the most of his opportunities, almost the ideal player that you have as that small forward.”

Richardson said the Saints would monitor the fitness of Jimmy Webster and Maverick Weller who suffered ankle injuries during Saturday’s loss.

The Saints face Carlton at Etihad Stadium on July 6.