It was the Demons’ first game since taking home the Division 3 premiership last September and the side certainly looked comfortable back in the higher grade.
After taking a 24-point lead into half-time, the Demons had to hold off a strong comeback from the Bloods in the third term before finishing to strongly to win 16.12 (108) to 12.9 (81).
Up forward for Mernda, Matthew Rees – best on ground in last year’s Grand Final win – starred kicking four goals and had help from new recruit Andrew Smith who slotted three for himself in his first match for the Demons. There was also a host of others kicking multiple goals.
Down the other end, Nick Mafilovski, Benjamin Gibson, Spencer Christopher and Steven Goodwin all kicked two goals for the defeated hosts.
Lalor kicked the first goal of the match and looked like it could pile on a few more with an early ascendency. However, when Mernda settled it took the most of its chances and booted six unanswered goals to stun the home crowd.
The Bloods were able to kick two goals to stay within reach of the Demons at half-time, although still trailed by four goals at the main break.
Lalor was able to make a gallant comeback in the third term, booting five goals for the quarter to come within two points nearing the end of the quarter. But it was to no avail, as Mernda kicked seven goals to four in the final term to win the match.
Mernda’s backline were able to clear the ball well and get it up the field cleanly with praise coming from coach Brett Wilson after the game.
“I think the small backline gave plenty of run,” Wilson said.
He also praised many other members of the team, emphasising the importance of playing as a team and winning as a team.
The Demons had four players play their first match in the red and blue with all making an immediate impact.
“There’s room for improvement but I think that they came out and adopted the red and blue mentality and it’s all about the team not about the individuals,” Wilson said.
Captain Rohan Davies showed why he won the Division 3 competition best and fairest last season, with a great game in the middle of the ground to begin season 2013.
Next week, Mernda will unfurl its 2012 premiership flag and hope to take home a win against Whittlesea who defeated South Morang by 94 points in its first game in Division 2 following relegation from the top flight.
Lalor will look to get its first win of season 2013 when it travels to Mill Park Lakes Reserve to take on South Morang.
Final score: Lalor 12.9 (81) def by Mernda 16.12 (108)
