SINEAD GOLDRICK AND Niamh McEvoy were in action as their Melbourne side announced themselves as AFLW title contenders with a thrilling nine-point win against city rivals North Melbourne in a heavyweight clash on Saturday. 

Melbourne – nicknamed the Demons – built their win on a sizzling second quarter, in which they outscored the pre-season title favourites by six goals to one, and withstood a late fightback from a North Melbourne side featuring Aileen Gilroy to earn a 60-51 win. 

The result improves Melbourne’s record to a perfect 3-0, while North Melbourne are 2-1.

Cora Staunton in action for the GWS Giants against the Gold Coast Suns. AAP / PA Images AAP / PA Images / PA Images

Earlier on Saturday, Cora Staunton contributed two behinds as her GWS Giants side earned their first win of the season in an 18-8 win over the Gold Coast Suns. 

Meanwhile, Carlton were comfortable 40-16 winners against St Kilda.