As the flag wafted over proceedings, the home side marked its intentions by slotting through the opening goal within the opening minute. It was followed by a second unanswered major a strong mark to Josh King saw him open his first of five goals for the contest.

Play concentrated back and forth between the two half-back lines in a physical contest as Heyfield rued missed opportunities in front of goal before clawing back two majors to trail by two behinds at the first change.

The second term belonged to the visitors, who added nine goals to one. The home side was left wanting as the term quickly resembled a training drill as last year's bridesmaids dominated.

The forward combination of former Maffra player Daniel Stubbe, Jesse Jackway, Joel Dinsdale and Kodie Woodland lit up the forward 50 as they proved a headache for defenders Ben Truin, Dean Pearce, Jason Ford and Anthony McMahon.

Recruit Lukas Jenkins proved a wildcard for the Kangaroos, the big man winning the ruck contest against Aaron Winker and providing Jack Woodland, Nick Dinsdale, Dave Kelly and Nick Dowse with first use of the ball.

Leading by 50 points at half-time, the pace and dogged attack of Heyfield caught the Magpies off guard in the second term.

The third term was a more even affair as the Magpies, through Mark Engley and King, kept the scoreboard ticking over but could do little to eat into the deficit.

For the Kangaroos, Joel Dinsdale stood-out, finishing with three majors, Jack Woodland impressed with his pace and skills and Nick Dinsdale accounted for several opponents.

For the Magpies, the key forwards in last year's grand final, Engley and King kicked six and five goals respectively, while defenders Truin and Rowson worked tirelessly to hold their opponents at bay.