East Perth edged out a persistent Perth outfit to record its first win of the 2017 WAFL season at Leederville Oval on Saturday.

In spite of the visiting Demons dominating the early stages of the game, the Royals steadied and eventually ran out 17.13 (115) to 14.11 (95) winners.

East Perth fans could be excused for feeling a little nervous ahead of the half-time siren when Perth booted four unanswered goals to hit the front late in the second quarter, but the home side saw off the challenge and effectively killed the contest with a superb six-goal-to-one third term.

Big man Fraser McInnes was the Royals’ best afield with 25 disposals and 12 marks. He was dominants in the air and finished off his good work with three goals.

Burgeoning midfield talent Kurt Mutimer was outstanding in the engine room en route to gathering 30 disposals, nine inside 50s, 10 effective tackles and a goal, while Mark Hutchings was also a strong contributor with 28 disposals, six tackles and two goals. Luke Partington was also busy through the midfield with 33 disposals.

Eric Mackenzie was resolute down back. He raked in eight marks and was unbeaten in the air all day, while speedster Lewis Jetta was solid with 19 disposals and a goal.

Tom Lamb was lively up forward with 19 touches and seven marks, but errant kicking cost him a big day at the office and he finished the contest with 1.3 to his name.

Youngsters Tom Cole (15 disposals), Josh Rotham (13 disposals), Daniel Venables (15 disposals) and Tom Gorter (11 disposals) were also handy in what could be remembered as a watershed win for the Royals.