Harris lifts Demons to AFLW win over Lions

Former Brisbane star Tayla Harris has played a starring role as Melbourne stole a three-point AFLW win over the Lions at Metricon Stadium.

Harris kicked two crucial goals and claimed seven contested marks as the Demons rebounded from being down 22-nil late in the second quarter to win 5.5 (35) to 4.8 (32) over the premiers.

Just like last year's meeting between these teams, Lion Greta Bodey had the chance to win the game with a free-kick after the siren, but, as it did in 2021, Bodey's kick fell short to end the Lions' five-game winning run.

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As well as her two goals and seven contested marks, Harris ended the game with 13 disposals and seven score involvements.

"Tonight we saw her workrate go to another level as well. I don't think she got much much of a rest because she was so important to us," Demons coach Mick Stinear said.

"Continually competing in the air, giving us a contest - I think she was marking a lot of them tonight - but then her ability to finish as well and kick the ball inside 50, she's quite a remarkable player.

"Really pleased, she's enjoying her footy and enjoying playing with her teammates."

The 24-year-old was ably supported by Karen Paxman who claimed 23 disposals while ex-Geelong star Olivia Purcell (14 disposals) was also impressive on her return from the ACL injury which wrecked her 2021 campaign in her first appearance for the Demons.

Demons veteran Daisy Pearce (15 disposals) also played a vital role when she switched from the forward to add an extra body in the defensive 50 to stem the Lions' tide.

The move came after the Lions, coming off a 69-point demolition of Gold Coast last Thursday, made a perfect start when Orla O'Dwyer marked her