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Demons Kick Clear to Start New AFLW Era with Win
Tom Wilson takes charge for the first time as Melbourne seek to reassert premiership credentials and Hawthorn debut three recruits and a first-gamer.
On Thursday at Ikon Park, Melbourne defeated Hawthorn 9.6 to 6.5 in the AFLW season opener, marking the first official match for new coach Tom Wilson.
Inaugural coach Mick Stinear departed at the end of last season to join Geelong, prompting the club's first coaching transition since its AFLW inception.
In her first game for Melbourne, recruit Mia Austin kicked four goals, while captain Kate Hore also attacked but finished with a wasteful 1.4.
Scores were tied at the final change before Melbourne kicked clear in the last quarter, led by midfielder Liv Purcell returning from knee reconstruction with 32 possessions and nine tackles.
Hawthorn aims to challenge for a premiership by focusing on energy and flair, with recruits Jac Dupuy and All-Australian Aine McDonagh showing promise despite the Hawks' scoring consistency challenges.