WESTERN Australia has opened its NAB AFL under-18 championship with a comprehensive 70-point win over New South Wales/Australian Capital Territory at Subiaco Oval on Sunday.

The Sandgropers 15.7 (97) defeated NSW/ACT 4.3 (27) in the curtain-raiser to the AFL clash between Fremantle and Port Adelaide.

Last year's title winners led by margins of 20 points, 38 and 43 at the respective breaks, before stepping up a level with five goals to one in the final term.

The powerful Western Australia side, featuring the much-talked about Nick Naitanui (20 hit outs and six tackles) and Daniel Rich (15 touches and four inside 50s), also had the likes of Lance Daly (five goals) and John Bennell (four goals) shine.

Michael Walters was also a standout for the Sandgropers, booting three goals and collecting 20 touches, while Matthew DeBoar was Western Australia's leading ball-winner with 25 disposals.

Geelong scholarship holder Ranga Ediriwickrama was outstanding again for NSW/ACT, gaining a game-high 25 disposals. Mitch Clisby was also among his side's best for the Rams. 

Western Australia 4.2 8.2 10.4 15.7 (97)
NSW/ACT 1.0 2.0 3.3 4.3 (27)

GOALS
Western Australia: Daly 5, Bennell 4, Walters 3, Garlett 2, Marsh
NSW/ACT: Kirkwood, McNeil, Ruffles, Sleeth

BEST
Western Australia: Walters, DeBoer, Lucas, Hill, Daly, Bennell, Pearce, Mather, Warner
NSW/ACT: Clisby, Ediriwickrama, Klemke, Fenaroli, Bryce, Gumley, McNeil, Frail, Kirkwood