Senior coach Ross Lyon says St Kilda's round one win was important to build belief and give reward to a group that had worked hard in their first pre-season under a new coach.

With up to eight players from their best line-up missing, the Saints revealed a daring and disciplined game style that contrasted heavily under the Marvel Stadium roof, seeing them finish the game 15 points clear of Fremantle.

"Our game style is an up tempo, run and work game style, and hopefully that was evident," Lyon said post-game.

"It was really contrasting styles tonight, which was quite interesting. I think if we play another team that's up tempo it will be ballistic, it will be last man standing."

Lyon said his return to the game day coaches' box felt "a bit surreal" and he was proud of the way the coaches prepared for Fremantle and operated as a group on Sunday.

The win was no more special, however, coming against the team he coached to a Grand Final in 2013.

"We're all passing through, right? I played a role at that club at that time, and it was what it was," he said. 

"I have fond memories, but I'm the St Kilda coach now. I'll enjoy this moment and then move on. There's not too much looking back to be honest.”