The Saints trailed by seven points at the first change, and had to battle hard to take a six-point advantage into half-time

It was a dominant six-goal-to-one third term that eventually proved the difference for the ladder-leaders.

Saints Sam Clyne, Jacob Cooke-Harrison and Heath Watson kicked three goals apiece.

Stawell interim coach Brad Thomas said when the pressure was mounted, his side was not up to it.

"When they got on top, our structures fell apart," he said.

"They outscored us pretty heavily in the third quarter."

Saints coach Shayne Breuer said his side found it difficult to shake the Warriors in the first half.

"Their running and use of the ball was really good," he said.

"I think our ball use needs to tighten up and we need to be cleaner under pressure though."