Saints coach Alan Richardson said the club would take a cautious "wait and see" approach with McCartin, who had a history concussions.

McCartin was ruled out of rest of the match after receiving a knock to the head in a marking contest 24 minutes into the second quarter.

He appeared to suffer "friendly fire" after getting caught at ground level.

McCartin lay stunned on the ground for a few moments before walking to the interchange bench.

McCartin had had limited time on the ground, but had kicked two goals.

The incident had similarities to a knock which left the Bulldogs' Liam Picken unconscious in a corresponding JLT Community Series match at Mars Stadium last year.

Despite losing McCartin, St Kilda led for most of the day to defeat the Western Bulldogs by 14 points.

The Saints jumped away to lead by four goals in the opening quarter.

The Bulldogs gradually worked their back into game to trail by 13 points at half-time and then locked up the encounter with a five-goal third quarter after hitting the lead on 30 minutes.

St Kilda dominated the early part of the last term and although the Bulldogs finished well, the Saints had the answers.

McCartin was not St Kilda's only concern after the game, with Dylan Roberton providing a minor scare after feeling unwell as the end of the day.

Roberton is on the comback trail after collapsed behind play against Geelong early last season.

He has a precautionary device implanted in his chest to monitor his heart.

Richardson said the Saints were confident he was okay.

"We're probably being over cautious, but no chances are being taken."

He said Roberton had told medical staff he did not feel well.

"You could imagine given what he's been through the doctors were pretty keen to get him in, analyse him and just make sure he was okay. I'm not sure exactly where that'll end up." 

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