By Nick Kelland Premierships aren't won in the first month of the competition but Manly coach Billy Melrose knows how important it is to start the competition well. Particularly in one as tight as the Shute Shield. The Marlins have started 2019 with two wins and a bonus point loss and while Melrose is pleased with his side's start, he knows his side has a long way to go. “We are making steady improvements as a team. Each outing we have got a little better. Against Easts, we scrapped really well under duress to hold on and win.” “We’re a good way off what I think is possible for this team though…” Melrose will get the chance for his side to continue that upward trend this weekend, when they tackle an ever-professional Northern Suburbs unit – who are undefeated thus far - and turned out one of the performances of the competition when they comfortably accounted for Eastwood 44-14 last start. “Norths will be a great measuring stick for us. They have starte