The reigning premier sits on top of the table after an 18-goal win in its grand final rematch against Ararat at Horsham City Oval on Saturday.

The Demons led by just two goals at quarter-time, before opening up a 10-goal half-time lead and marginally increasing their lead in the final two terms to run out 52-34 victors.

Demons coach Zoe Heard said it was pleasing to go into the interleague break on a winning note.

“We knew it was going to be tough and the first quarter was evenly matched,” she said.

“The girls really started to pull away in the second quarter and once we got in front we knew we had to keep going as you’ve always got to be careful of Ararat.

“It ended up being reasonably convincing, so we were pretty happy to get the win in a hard-fought game.”

Heard praised the work of mid-court players Paige Lloyd and Abbie Avery, who provided drive and delivery through the middle, and Jedda Heard for her strong defensive work in the circle.

The potent forward pairing of Georgia Duncan, 31 goals, and Stephanie Thomson, 21, also continued to fire for the Demons.

For Ararat, goalie Megan Shea was among her side’s best, converting 21 opportunities, as was keeper Tiffany Boatman.

Minyip-Murtoa and Nhill played out a low-scoring thriller at Murtoa Recreation Reserve, with both collecting their first points for the year.

The Burras and Tigers could not be split at the final whistle, with the score standing at 29-29.

A four-goal deficit confronted the host at the final change, but it responded to break a 24-game losing streak dating back to July 2012.

Tegan Werner and Lauren Hotker were named the Burras’ best, while Emma Dickinson and Sarah Etherton impressed for the visitors.

Tigers shooter Emma Smith scored 22 goals, while her Burras counterpart Emma Huff goaled on 18 occasions.

Fourth-placed Dimboola moved a game clear of fifth-placed Stawell with a nine-goal win at Dimboola Recreation Reserve.

The Roos welcomed back Carly Werner as they overcame a competitive Warriors outfit 63-54.

Shooter Billie-Jo Barber scored 45 goals to be named alongside centre Grace Braithwaite as the Roos’ best.

Warriors shooter Liza Cook, 38 goals, starred, while goal defence Ellen Williams stood tall.

Warrack Eagles’ winning streak extended to four matches after they defeated Horsham Saints by seven goals at Coughlin Park.

The visitors trailed by one goal at half-time, but turned the tables with a 17-goal-to-eight third quarter before holding on for a 47-40 triumph.

Eagles goalie Megan Werner continued her impressive form, scoring 24 times, while Saints shooter Sharon Fedke converted 25 opportunities.