Melbourne captain Max Gawn is asserting himself on the contest after lowering his colours to ex-teammate Brodie Grundy a week ago against Sydney.
Gawn’s 15 disposals, six clearances and 17 hit-outs, plus a late intercept mark down back, led the Dees to a 12-point advantage over the Bulldogs at the main break.
They were the better side for much of the first two quarters, but the Dogs finished well, with a Cody Weightman set shot – after a somewhat contentious free kick against Jake Lever – kept them within range at half-time.
But there will be concern for Luke Beveridge, given Melbourne kicked six of the seven goals before Weightman intervened.
Clayton Oliver has a match-high 21 disposals for the Demons, with Christian Petracca (16) increasingly prominent, while Marcus Bontempelli (16 disposals, 10 contested possessions, second quarter goal) is lifting for the Bulldogs.
Melbourne lead by 12 at half-time.
Melbourne celebrate a goal.Credit: Getty
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