Melbourne have overcome bogey side Carlton by 22 points at the MCG to start their AFL season with two consecutive wins.

The Demons went in to Sunday’s clash having lost nine of their past 10 encounters against the Blues but prevailed 13.8 (86) to 9.10 (64) in a scrappy affair in front of 46,727 fans.

Carlton trailed by as much as 24 points but hit the front for the first time when Matthew Wright kicked his third goal of the match in the 15th minute of the third term.

Melbourne’s mental demons looked set to get the better of them as they went in to the last quarter three points in arrears.

Carlton’s stifling defence proved a tough nut to crack for the most part but a spectacular chase and tackle by Demons livewire Jeff Garlett on Sam Docherty settled the contest.

Garlett kicked his third goal of the game from the resulting free kick to put his side up by 15 points with just over three minutes remaining on the clock.

Docherty’s mistake was a rare blemish for the defender who was among his side’s best players with 28 touches and 10 marks, with skipper Marc Murphy (32 possessions) also outstanding.

Exciting Demons youngster Clayton Oliver followed up his 36-disposal effort in last week’s win over St Kilda with an eye-catching 34-possession performance.

Christian Salem, Dom Tyson and co-captain Nathan Jones were also important in the hard-fought victory.

Melbourne escaped unscathed on the injury front but will nervously await the AFL match review panel’s assessment of the game.

In an at times spiteful encounter, Jesse Hogan and Jordan Lewis were involved in skirmishes, with Sam Rowe and Patrick Cripps respectively, which will surely attract close scrutiny.

Melbourne will attempt to keep their winning run going when they face Geelong at Etihad Stadium on Saturday, while the Blues will look to rebound against Essendon on Sunday at the MCG.