After being down by 16 points at quarter-time, and the game being well and truly in the balance early in the last quarter, the Dockers got the job done 18.19 (127) to 11.10 (76).

Midfielder Dylan Smith was best on ground, adding a four goal haul to his work in the middle, while Harry Walters also chimed in with four majors.

Luke Russell, Nick McKenna and Isaac Plant were other strong contributors for the reigning premiers.

Adam Jeffrey kicked four goals for Latrobe, with Brayden Butler, Joseph Robertson and Will Shearer among the Demons' best.

At Girdlestone Park, East Devonport began life under Josh Holland with a win in the Mersey Derby against Devonport.

The Swans established a 17-point lead in the first term and were able to maintain a comfortable gap for the remainder of the contest on their way to a 12.15 (87) to 7.11 (53) win.

Jack Triffett kicked four goals and Damien Medwin three for the winners, as Nathan Gore, Nick Mitchell and Nathan Applebee played key roles.

Ryan Kelly, Liam Williams and Baynen Lowe were the Magpies' best.

In the twilight match at Ulverstone, Wynyard walked away with a 36-point win over a wasteful Robins outfit 15.8 (98) to 8.14 (62).