Melbourne 8.8 (56) d Adelaide 4.0 (24)

Saturday at Casey Fields

Melbourne dominated the Adelaide Crows on Saturday afternoon to keep last year’s premiers winless.

Four goals in the second term set the Demons up nicely, flexing their midfield muscle to show serious premiership intentions.

The Crows were again without Erin Phillips, and while coach Bec Goddard saw more to the loss than her absence, there’s no doubt the side isn’t quite firing without her.

Karen Paxman turned in another starring appearance, with 21 disposals, earning some rest in the fourth quarter as the home side maintained their comfortable lead.

Kate Hore wasn’t far behind her, with 20 disposals.

Fremantle 6.4 (40) d Collingwood 4.3 (27)

Saturday night at Optus Stadium

A record crowd turned out to christen Perth’s new stadium, as Fremantle recorded an impressive win over Collingwood.

After Collingwood kicked the first two, the Dockers were able to work their way into the match, reply with three and take a lead into the first break.

The home side didn’t look back, and despite a Magpies surge in the third quarter, delighted the crowd with a win.

Dana Hooker (20 disposals, two goals) put in a stirring performance, thriving in the new stadium.

Collingwood coach Wayne Siekman conceded that his side didn’t rise with the Dockers as they lifted their game, but one standout was Chloe Molloy who continues to impress in the backline.