Tasmania Devils back up VFL debut with second win

Tasmania have shown early signs they belong in the VFL, backing up success in their maiden game with a win in their first foray into the state's north.

A week after toppling Coburg in Hobart with a 10,634-strong sold-out crowd in attendance, the Devils got past Port Melbourne 15.11 (101) to 14.9 (93) in Launceston on Saturday.

Stand-in skipper and former Essendon small forward Jye Menzie kicked four goals, including the match-sealer in the dying stages of the fourth quarter.

The Devils had several set shots late in the piece but couldn't land the killer punch, until Menzie pounced at the end of a slick movement.

It was the club's first game at University of Tasmania Stadium - in front of a crowd of 5013, with capacity capped at 8500 because of redevelopments.

Tasmania have two seasons in the VFL and VFLW before their entry into the AFL and AFLW in 2028, and say the Victorian second-tier league is crucial in their build.

"We've said we don't want to come here and take part," coach Jeromey Webberley said.

"We want to try and finish in the top 10 and play finals footy in our first year, as well as develop individual talent. We feel like the team is in a really good spot."

Much like round one, the Devils lost major stats including disposals (353 to 318) and inside-50s (49 to 45), but came up trumps on the scoreboard.

Menzie had 13 disposals, six tackles and five clearances to go with his goal haul.

West Australian product Jed Hagan came to life late in the game with two crucial goals after starring in round one.

The Devils are still without the services of captain and former Sydney Swans grand finalist Robbie Fox, who is out with a calf strain.

Webberley said the group spoke about putting in a good showing after their maiden win.

"We said phase one is over, let's go into phase two. We're speaking about staying present, staying in the moment," he said.

"There are some really good signs when we're under pressure. Our group has been biting down on the mouthguard a bit for the bloke next to them."

The side ran out through a banner bearing the message "Undefeated, we're off to a flyer. Please don't listen to Eddie McGuire", in a dig at the former Collingwood president's comments about potentially delaying the Devils' AFL entry.

Tasmania played in the VFL from 2001-08, but this is their first endeavour as the Devils franchise.

They started strongly, but Port Melbourne reeled off the final three goals of the first term for a 26-20 lead at the first break.

The second quarter was a carbon-copy of the first - the Devils shot ahead with a run of four goals, including Menzie's third.

Port Melbourne rallied and hit a 49-46 lead by halftime, before the game was locked at 80-80 heading into the final quarter.