The first term was an entertaining goal-for-goal encounter.
The Giants kicked the first goal via Rhys Palmer, before Dean Kent opened Melbourne’s account at the seven-minute mark.
Palmer added GWS’ second in time-on, before Jack Watts snapped a beauty at the 24-minute mark, giving the Demons a three-point lead at the first break.
Second quarter: GWS 6.4 (40) to Melbourne 2.9 (21)
GWS took control in the second quarter, booting four goals to zip, gaining a 19-point lead at half-time.
But it wasn’t until the latter part of the term, when the Giants upped the ante, booting three goals in eight minutes from the 18-minute mark.
The Demons had several opportunities in front of goal, but managed five behinds for the quarter.
Third quarter: GWS 2.11 (23) to Melbourne 10.7 (67)
The Giants continued their dominance in the third term, booting four goals to zip, as the Demons continued their disappointing performance.
The Demons added just two behinds for the term to have 2.11 by three quarter-time.
As a result, GWS took a 44-point lead into the final change.
Final quarter: GWS 15.8 (98) d Melbourne 3.16 (34)
The Demons needed a miracle in the final term and when Palmer booted his third to open the final term – he finished with four for the match – it was never going to happen.
Although Colin Garland finally broke the drought and kicked Melbourne’s third goal for the match – and first since the opening term – it was far too late.
In the end, the Giants booted five goals to one in the final quarter to win by 64 points.
