Melbourne's forward line potency shone through as the Demons cemented second spot on the AFL ladder with a comfortable 36-point victory over the Kangaroos at Manuka Oval.

Led by a four-goal third quarter from Russell Robertson, the Demons controlled the second half, kicking away to a 44-point lead during the third term before winning 17.14 (116) to 11.14 (80).

Despite struggling up forward all day, the Kangaroos weren't without their chances, with Corey Jones missing a shot on the run from 30 metres which would have left them just three goals adrift at the 18-minute mark of the final term.

Melbourne had earlier threatened to take control of the game in the second quarter, but squandered several chances in front of goal to lead by 13 points at the main break.

Aside from Robertson's six goal haul for the match, Cameron Bruce kicked four goals and Brad Green three for the winners, while centre half forward Brad Miller and backman Clint Bizzell were also good contributors.

Melbourne captain David Neitz was held goalless in his return from a hamstring injury but Demons coach Neale Daniher later agreed Melbourne's forward line was always going to be a danger.

He was able to rotate Neitz, Green, Robertson, Bruce, Adem Yze, Travis Johnstone and Aaron Davey to continually create headaches for the `Roos' defence.

"We knew we had seven forwards and we were just going to shuffle them around until we found the right balance," Daniher said.

"We've got a dangerous forward line and Russell was the man today."

The Demons now sit a game clear in second spot behind runaway leader West Coast, with Daniher happy with his side's position ahead of next week's blockbuster at the MCG against Collingwood.

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