Every season it feels like the Trade Period is dragged on forever. That's probably because rumours begin to pop-up mid season and everyone gets so carried away with the potentials and the trading. Enough to give you a headache and heartache all at the same time.
But we've reached the end, so it's time to evaluate and discuss.
Overall, North's trade period is like the best episode of "Bargain Hunters" in 2016. What they brought in was really good. We are so used to a quiet North Melbourne over the trade period, so it was nice to see a bit of action from the Roos, and even nicer with what we walked away with.
To Summarise: IN - Ahern, Hrovat, Williams, Pick 32, 92, 2017 3rd and 4th round picks OUT - Wells, Black, Pick 69, 105, 2017 3rd and 4th round picks
And now... in Depth:
Andrew Swallow and the Gold Coast Suns
Swallow stood down as captain of North Melbourne and three days later someone on the internet constructed a five club mega trade involving Spitta going to the Gold Coast. I think the worst part about this rumour was the attitude of some supporters who were on board with idea of off loading him. I personally prefer the idea of him regaining his best form, without the captaincy pressures. Despite the rumours, Swallow stayed put. He's set to regain his best form and be a big part of 2017.
IN: Compensation Pick 32 OUT: Daniel Wells to Collingwood
The fact that Wells delayed his re-signing, and then decided not to comment on his future until after the Syd Barker Medal pretty must confirmed that Wells would be straight out the door. It's a really upsetting decision that he made, especially after how the club has really carried him over the years. He did some great things for North but, as we always say, no man is bigger than the club. He's on a mighty salary at the Pies so for their sake you hope his injuries hold up. For our sake, well... let's just see how we go.
Todd Goldstein and WA Today
This story burst onto the scene and created such havoc in social media land. It left the building just as quickly.
Perth paper 'WA Today' reported that ruckman Todd Goldstein wanted out of North, and that he had a medical at the West Coast Eagles. The rumour spilled out shortly after Hawthorn superstar Sam Mitchell made the move west. Funny part about this story is that Goldy HADN'T EVEN BEEN TO PERTH IN THE OFF SEASON (honestly were did this story even come from)
The reason behind his move? Some not so friendly rumours regarding himself and ex-wife Kristy. No need to re-visit that one, though.
The rumours about Goldy heading West were quickly shut down by both parties. Eagles footy manager Craig Vozzo gave everyone a flat out no, with many North-affiliated journalists keeping North fans calm.
... I wonder if WA Today found out how his medical actually went?
IN: Paul Ahern from GWS OUT: Pick 69 to GWS
October 17 saw luckless Giant Paul Ahern find a new home at North Melbourne. The former number 7 draft pick was brought in at a bargain price of pick 69, and despite his knee troubles, it was hardly a major risk to take. Ahern probably won't play in 2017, as plenty rehab is required but if he comes good the kid is set to be a gun. Really looking forward to seeing him in action for North in the coming seasons. Sending out pick 69 wasn't a big loss, or a massive risk - so big tick here.
Drew Petrie
I'll be honest, I'm really devastated he didn't find a new home. Just weeks after North's shock veteran's cull, it was rumoured that West Coast would approach Petrie as a potential replacement for Nic Nat in 2017. But as soon as the trade period hit, word on Drew went quiet, and he was eventually overlooked as West Coast went with Nathan Vardy instead. He can still be taken in the delisted free agency draft, and there are still rumours surround the Eagles. Only time will tell.
IN: Nathan Hrovat, 2017 3rd and 4th round pick from Bulldogs OUT: 2017 3rd and 4th round pick to Bulldogs
Brilliant. Just brilliant.
Word came in late on Wednesday night that North looked likely to secure Hrovat over Carlton. Basically got him for free, as the Dogs agreed to exchange 2017 picks with North. Boomer mentored him in his draft year and gave raving reviews.
Many experts touting this as the 'Bargain Trade' of 2016 and I couldn't agree more. He's great talent who couldn't find his way into a super talented team. Assume he'll be thrown straight into the side come 2017, bring it on.
IN: Pick 92 from Geelong OUT: Aaron Black to Geelong
The most disappointing part of this deal is that Aaron Black didn't work for North Melbourne. He's a huge talent when he's on, and 2013/2014 were real breakout seasons for him. Unfortunately, he just couldn't re-find that form. He was given plenty of chances and failed to live up to the standard he set for himself. Then add Brown, Waite, Wood and Majak into the equation... the move was to come eventually. I'd like to see him back at his best, however I am just really unsure. Good luck to him
IN: Marley Williams from Collingwood OUT: Pick 105 to Collingwood
The surprise package for me, but we gave up next to nothing, so no complaints.
Need to fix his kicking and potentially his attitude - but North clearly have a plan for him down the track so I'd believe them with their take.
The Only Downside
We failed to take part in any big trades. I am really happy with what North did and I think the outcome was positive rather than negative, however we didn't bring in any massive names. Will be interesting to see how we work with what we've got, however all signs pointing positive at this point.
The Draft
We hold picks 11, 32, 33, 87 and 92 - not a bad hand, particularly in the first three picks.
I think we did well. Despite the departure of Wells early, the trade period ended on a positive note for North. Now we look to the draft and even further ahead to 2017. Bring in more talent and rebuild this team back up.
Time to get right behind our team, push us into 2017 success and beyond.
Marnie
"To the members who have said they won't re-sign, remember the Shinboner Spirit. Our club needs your support more than ever."
It's often emotional having the AFL season come to an end. I often find myself going slightly insane by the end of October, shaking in a corner by mid November, and desperately hunting for my 1996 grand final replay by early December. Footy is a cruel addiction.
However, it doesn't quite feel as though the season has actually finished, as we've dived head first into a hectic off season. The Brownlow, Grand Final and Syd Barker Medal have all come and gone, while Trade Week has well and truly kicked off. There is so much to talk about, so let's get straight into it.
The Brownlow
I enjoyed the Brownlow this season, for the same reason I loved the last. I love Patrick Dangerfield and I think he is all class and like Nat Fyfe the season before, amazed me more than I thought he could. Spoke like a true gem that he is and such a deserving winner.
Anyway, onto North Melbourne. Without a doubt, the highlight came at Mark of the Year. Majak had pretty much cleaned up 'Mark of the Year' at every individual radio and TV station, so there were no surprises seeing him with the official award as well. It was a great leap, and can't be spoken about enough. On a Friday Night stage against Collingwood, it iced a great win that evening. Although Maj took home Mark of the Year, he failed to poll any votes in the Brownlow tally. The clubs' best was Daniel Wells, who had a brilliant 2016. However, I think the more important focus came from second and third place. Start with Todd Goldstein on 11 votes - it still shows he is one of our best and most valuable players. He still kicked 20 goals and had a season average of 36.5 hit outs (career average 32.2).. actually, his stats are up in just about everything. Certainly looking forward to a big 2017 from him, and from 3rd placed Jarrad Waite. I think his importance in the side can sometimes be underestimated. 29 goals from 14 games and his influence around the ground cannot be ignored. He'll be fit and ready to go around again in 2017 and I am certainly looking forward to it. He's a contributor, and you can't ignore his first half of the season - he looked even better than 2015 (and that was a huge improvement). I can't wait to have him back in action next year.
The Grand Final
There isn't much I can say about this, except for wow. I was at the Grand Final and the atmosphere and the way the game played out was unlike anything I'd seen before. The Dogs created history in front of my eyes and when I sit back and reflect on what I saw, it was a very promising and comforting sign. I'll remind you of the Dog's 2014 off season: the captain went to the Giants, then went the coach two days later. Cooney and Higgins were soon to follow and CEO Simon Garlick joined them. They recovered in the best possible fashion and all of Australia united behind them on that precious day in October. What a story, and what a story we can learn from. It's time to let go of the anger and unite behind our beloved football team as we begin our next journey to success. Time to get on board ladies and gentleman, because the future is looking exceptionally bright.
Syd Barker Medal
Speaking of a bright future, Robbie Tarrant has finally reached the light at the end of the tunnel. After an outstanding season, he was (un-surprisingly) awarded the 2016 Syd Barker Medal. He was a standout for the Roos in 2016, as his backline re-invention now looks complete. An All-Australian nomination just confirmed his great year, and there was plenty to celebrate for the humbled winner.
It was an outstanding night, with emotions running on high - I can't remember the last time I cried so much. There couldn't have been too many dry eyes around the room and for viewers at home across the country. The night began with the announcement that Andrew Swallow would be stepping down as captain of the club. I think he's done a really great job in the role - just because he isn't talked about as much, doesn't mean his impact and influence is any less. He was also voted by his teammates to continue on as captain in 2016; that in itself speaks volumes. When he's on, Swallow's clearance and tackling is first class, and one of the best in the league. His form comes first, and I am sure captain in waiting, and Syd Barker Medal runner-up Jack Ziebell will do a mighty job at leading the club forward in 2017 and beyond.
Just touching on the final tally before we get into the emotional stuff: Tarrant first, Ziebell a close second and Gibson not far behind in third. Gibson is an important one because I think he doesn't get enough credit where it's due. Probably his best season for the club, he's now played 108 consecutive games and I think he's a solid contributor. Couldn't argue with that third spot.
Each departing veteran addressed the crowd and it sent the tear ducts into overdrive. Nick Dal Santo, Michael Firrito, an emotional Drew Petrie and club legend Brent Harvey for the final time. It was difficult to watch, but it was Brent Harvey's retirement that was a bittersweet end to his speech.
"I'd like to tell everyone in this room tonight that my decision NOT to pull on another team's jumper is why I'd like to announce my retirement from AFL Football"
I am, once again it tears just watching the final 90 seconds of his address. I think it's finally sunk in that Boomer, along with Drew, Spud and Dal, will not be playing for North Melbourne in 2017 and beyond. As a supporter, I was overcome with emotion knowing Brent Harvey will have played 432 games for North Melbourne and none more - both happy and sad. I will struggle to watch that speech again simply because I know it brings me to tears every single time, but they're tears of pride.
Finally, the NM Life Memberships. In case Boomer didn't make me cry enough, then Lindsay was there to drag more tears out of me. I love that man and the love he has for the club and everyone around him. Such a heart warming speech he made, and when he teared up over Boomer I knew I was in trouble. Lachie Hansen addressed the crowd really well, I've always liked him and his good nature and his real appreciation for football and life. Then there was Peter Scanlon - what an incredible man and what amazing contributions he has made to our football club. The way JB spoke about him sent shivers down my spine. The money he has generously donated to the club, his continuous support through some of our darkest times, the influence he's had on so many people around him and his selflessness was spoken about in the highest regard. I was blown away after learning about his contribution and it is people like him that make this club so great.
Trade Week
And so here we are, at the end of day two of Trade Week. The only confirmed move so far was Daniel Wells to Collingwood and pick 32 given to the Roos as compensation. At the end of his 14th season, the midfielder has decided to move on from the club. That's the nature of football I'm afraid, any player could walk out the door. It is sad, however the future is so so bright. We have thrown around so many new names this season, while some of our best are yet to return and have an influence in 2017.
It's now time to accept the off season and get ready for 2017.
If anyone needs me, I'll be celebrating Glenn Freeborn's second quarter blitz in the 96' GF.
- Marnie
Now that it's over, I'm taking a new approach to 2016. It was certainly a emotion fuelled season for supporters, but what kind of a season is it to remember the bad rather than good? This isn't 2009 or 2013 we're talking about. Those really weren't good seasons. But North did achieve a lot in 2016 - plenty of individuals made their mark on the side, and there were some really well fought out victories too. It's time to delve right into and pick out all the best bits that were season 2016.
16. Ben Brown
Wrote about him in my 2015 favourites, and there was no way I could keep him off the list this season either. North's leading goal kicker in 2016 and in the top 20 for the season in the AFL. He stood up very well in the absence of Waite, and his importance was constantly highlighted throughout the season. While we are unsure about Jarrad Waite's future, that of Ben Brown is certain - a massive presence in North's forward line in 2017. Exciting stuff for the young man, who has cemented himself as a crucial player at North.
15. St Kilda and Adelaide FC
The actions taken by these two football clubs in 2016 were simply all class. Let's start with St Kilda - hit with a double whammy in Round 7 (Drew's 300th) and Round 19 (Boomer's 427th). The actions taken were outstanding. A St Kilda home game in round 7, and it was all about Drew Petrie. Congratulatory announcements all pre-game and made it very well known it was the great man's 300th. Round 19 was even better, honouring Boomer on the club's banner. Don't forget guard of honour at the end of each game - St Kilda did it so well and were so professional. It was impressive.
Adelaide were equally impressive at the end of the Elimination Final. A guard of honour for Boomer, Drew, Spud and Dal in their final game at North. The entire ground erupted in applause and there were few dry eyes amongst fans. Even in a victory, Adelaide passed over the post-game attention. It was quite a sight and just incredible sportsmanship from both clubs.
14. Round 11 v Richmond
It's hard to believe these two clubs faced off in an Elimination Final just 12 months ago. Don't forget; Richmond sitting in 5th and North in 8th. The Friday night special in Hobart was probably North's most complete performance of the season. Demolished Richmond in just about every area of the ground and walked away 70 point victors. Also did it without Todd Goldstein, and while Maj was beaten in the ruck, he still had an influence on the game with 10 possessions, 5 tackles and a goal. Captain Swallow was at his inspiring best - an outstanding 19 contested possessions and 10 clearances highlighting his game. Boomer and Wells also put in massive performances - it was a really interesting comparison of where these two sides are at.
13. Boomer
I mean, what can you even say about this man that hasn't been said before? He's a legend of North Melbourne, and after 2016 he'll go down as a legend of the game. In 2016, he took over the AFL games record and he also reached 500 career goals (the third Roo to do so, and following his 512th goal, moved into 2nd on the all-time goal kicking table at North). He just keeps getting better. Best on ground multiple times this season; was the fire starter in the round 1 revival against Adelaide and his 6 goals against Melbourne was a career high for the superstar. As his time at North Melbourne has come to a heartbreaking end, Boomer carried himself like a true professional and was all class until the very end (as where his teammates Drew, Spud and Dal). There is so much love for him, and his legacy will live on throughout this football club for centuries to come.
12. Ryan Clarke
Really like this kid. Has a great attitude and can play. Clarke made his debut against West Coast in Round 16, after he was a late inclusion for the ill Nick Dal Santo. He has become a major talking point amongst Roo fans ever since. His 6 games in 2016 was highlighted by his performance in round 18, where he received a Rising Star nomination. His 27 touches, in particular an outstanding 11 possessions in the final quarter were a stand out. Clarke's nomination came in just his third AFL game, and he is just the 3rd Roo since 2010 to win a rising star nomination. He was probably stiff to miss the final 22 in Adelaide for week one of the finals, but he has a bright future ahead of him.
11. Jack Ziebell in the Elimination Final
North's finals campaign was a forgettable one in 2016, and while they reached new heights in 2014 and 2015, we just couldn't get the fire going against the Crows. Despite a competitive first half from the Roos, Adelaide took it to the next level and as we hit three quarter time, the end was staring in our faces. If there was something to take from that game, however, it was Jack Ziebell. He was inspiring and a driving force for the Roos over the four quarters. He stood up as a leader and really had an impact. Will be the next Captain of North Melbourne, it is just a matter of when. He is fearless and really lifted in a time of need.
10. Mason Wood
We've seen bits and pieces of Mason over the past couple of seasons, but in 2016 he really presented himself as the future of this club. Too many good things to say about this young man. Starting with his composure against St Kilda in round 7 - firstly, his game saving tackle. 30 seconds on the clock, North up by one point and lays a tackle on St Kilda's Jack Newness who was pinned for holding the ball. Then, under enormous pressure and a ticking countdown clock, Mase took his full 30 seconds and finished off the game with a goal. He kicked 12 goals in his 8 games and despite his season ending injury, we had all seen enough to know his re-signing was crucial... and re-sign he did. Four seasons at North, seeing him a Roo until the end of 2020; the club said it was never in doubt. His impact in seasons to come also a sure thing.
9. Round 6 v Western Bulldogs
It was first vs second on the ladder and the game lived up to all expectations. North got on top of the Dogs by 16 points and Jarrad Waite proved the difference. 7 marks and 4 goals to his name, Waite stood up when North needed a spark. Etihad was filled with intensity you could cut it with a knife. Swallow and Cunnington were on fire with 14 tackles each and Wells was important with 27 possessions. North remained in top spot, and it was the biggest statement they made in 2016.
8. Round 1 v Adelaide
I wrote about this game earlier in the season and I labelled it our best win for the year. Still stick by that 100%. North's first round one victory in seven years and it was a good one too. Come from behind victory, with a bit of grit and a bit of fight. The third quarter was the difference, as North booted 7 goals to 4 - set themselves for the big finish. Everyone had an influence - Boomer in particular with 3 goals in that big third quarter, and Daniel Wells was back and better than ever for the Roos. The only unfortunate thing is the best game came in round one. Hope to see more of this next season.
7. Final Series #3
North made it for the third consecutive season, something they haven't achieved since the days of Dennis Pagan (North played finals from 1993-2000 and have not featured in more than two consecutive finals up until 2014-2016). It's definitely an achievement and it's been lost in all of second half drama. Again, I do understand that the expectations were't quite met, but the hard work was done early. If only premierships were won in June....
6. Jamie MacMillan
Cannot speak highly enough of JMac. Think I've mentioned his name about 56 times throughout the season and I just can't stop. He's had such a good year and is finally getting the recognition he deserves. Along with Robbie Tarrant, he's been the most consistent performer all season and has done plenty of good things. He joined the leadership group last season, and has thrived in the position ever since. Named one of the most underrated Roos last season and making a name for himself in 2016. On the rise once more and expect a big 2017.
5. Majak's Mark
Majak has had a really important season and it's probably secured his future at North. In the absence of Todd Goldstein in Tasmania, and more recently the loss of Jarrad Waite through injury, Daw has been able to shine a light on season 2016. He's getting better every time you see him and once reaching his full potential, he can become a star of the game. But his 2016 has been about one moment in particular. Majak clunked his massive grab with a couple minutes to play in the 3rd quarter against Collingwood in round 18. I jumped out of my seat and just screamed 'THAT IS THE MARK OF THE YEAR. THAT IS IT'. The 70+ year old Pies supporters thought I was crazy, but they didn't disagree. It was a big leap, and it fuelled us with some excitement that we were probably been missing. Majak made it to the 'Mark of the Year' finals (so he should) and would hope he walk away with the win. I don't need to say much more... the mark speaks for itself.
4. Robbie Tarrant
This was the story of the season. Robbie Tarrant has always battled with injury, however his re-birth as a defender has proven career-changing. Tarrant had an incredible year, playing all 23 games and shutting down some of the best forwards in the competition. North fans celebrated as the defender re-signed a four year deal with North Melbourne, putting an end to rumours he would walk from the club at seasons end. He earned himself an All Australian nomination is the squad of 40, and was incredibly stiff to not be named in the side. He's a hot favourite to take home to Syd Barker Medal, as North's best player for 2016.
3. Nine wins in a row
I mean, how can you forget the opening half of the year. 9 straight wins to record North's best start to a season in the clubs history. It's still a remarkable effort, despite what was to follow. North just found a way to win every game, no matter what position they put themselves in. That game in round 3 against Melbourne always sticks out in my mind as something that represented the old and the new North Melbourne. We found ourselves in a testing position but found a way to get the victory. It was hard not to get excited, I am sure even those who said 'they weren't sucked in by the brilliant start' were definitely feeling proud. It was a good 9 weeks and an honour to be part of it.
2. Game 426 and Game 427
It was a special fortnight for North Melbourne and Brent Harvey, who equalled Michael Tuck's AFL games record of 426 against Collingwood, and then went on to break it a week later, in game 427 and a win against St Kilda. The victories were a perfect way to honour the club legend, who had an influence in both games. North were on fire in game 426, running away 40 point winners. Despite the challenge from the Pies in the third quarter, the Roos had an answer for everything thrown at them. 4 goals in the final three and half minutes of play to really ice Boomer's cake. Game 427 was a scrappy affair, but North just got the job done. The lead did stretch out to 40 points at one stage, with late goals to St Kilda flattering the scoreline. Boomer collected 49 possessions over the two weeks, and celebrated his milestone in style.
1. Lindsay Thomas' post match interview
You know, I am sure this will come as a surprise sitting at #1. Brent Harvey's achievements this season were just incredible, but to me, this moment defined North Melbourne and 2016. Lindsay Thomas was probably the most influential player against Collingwood in round 18, but his best on ground performance came after the game. The way he conducted himself in that interview was nothing short of incredible. He is humble, he's a team player and he has a heart of gold - all of which shone through. After losing his uncle earlier that week, he paid his tributes to his family back home in the best possible fashion, kicking five goals. He was edging on emotion through the entire interview and he nailed it. Lindsay had a fantastic year, one his most complete and consistent over his career - but that interview took him to another level and just showed what football is really about. The humble man behind the competitive mask - he did it brilliantly.
I think the interview captures the club as a whole. Underrated, and maybe at times a little misunderstood. But underneath the on field niggle and competitive skin, we see warmth and love and embracing the club and passion. That just about summaries Lindsay Thomas, and North Melbourne and what a club it is to be a part of.
And there you have it. My 16 from 2016.
It's been a hell of a season, and there is so much to come and look forward to in preparation for 2017.
There's always plenty to discuss, and I'll be right here with you.
Ah dear, where do we even begin?
Let's start with the simple breakdown: North win their first nine games of the season, then win one out of their next six. We entered round 12 on top of the ladder and finished round 16 in Eighth. A week is a long time in a tight season. Football's a strange game and North are most certainly in the thick of it.
The past six weeks can be summed up in one word: disappointing. After what we saw in the first nine rounds of the season, the internal expectations and external pressures mounted. Did we live up to it all? I don't think so. It is frustrating beyond belief.. how much longer do we all have to wait around for something to happen?
In 2014 and 2015 North made back-to-back preliminary finals, an outstanding result. However, what is enough for 2016? Will anything less than a top 4 finish be sufficient? If we were to make a third prelim from 5-8, is that considered success? How about making the top four at the end of the home and away season, and then making a prelim, only to fall short once again... is that successful? I took to twitter for some opinions, and majority of you said no. A simple no.
While I feel like the side has the capabilities to really have a stab at 2016, it hasn't all been smooth sailing. Let's start with everyone's favourite topic - injuries.
Over rounds fourteen and fifteen I was in Port Douglas, and spotted Shaun Higgins walking down the main street accompanied by his wife and one crutch. Less than 24 hours prior to this, I watched an exhausted North Melbourne fall to Adelaide. Having to see him and know what a difference he would've made the night before simply broke my heart.
Of all the disappointments, this is certainly the biggest and has had the most impact on the team.
Of the side that was fielded in Round 1, 2016, in comparison to the side that took on West Coast in round 16, there are six players missing due to injuries (a seventh, Nick Dal Santo missed due to illness). Further back than that, of the side that played in the Elimination Final against Richmond in 2015, there are six changes to the side that flew to Perth (five injuries, one omission - a seventh change if you include Dal Santo). Of those injuries, Wells and Luke McDonald didn't play against Richmond, while Ben Jacobs didn't play in round one. Of those who are currently on the sidelines; Wells and Waite have been two of the most influential players in the side this season, while Shaun Higgins was continuing on his best footy from 2015 in the new year. One of North's most underrated players, Sam Wright, the go-to tagger in Ben Jacobs and Luke McDonald, who was also playing the best football of his career are all on the sidelines too. When you walk yourself through it, you only realise how bad it is, and as the season goes on, the holes in the side are becoming more and more obvious.
I get it, I completely understand and acknowledge the fact that our injury list is horrific. We can't control the mountain of injuries, but really we can't keep using them as excuses either because that's not going to win us games and get us into the top 4, which is ideally where we want to be. "When our side is fully fit we will come out and smash any side in our way" - by the time our side is close to full strength, the season will be almost at an end, and September looms as another missed opportunity to take a stab at the top 4.
So we haven't had the best luck in the injuries department, and we probably haven't been handed the best fixture either. The most six-day breaks of any side in the comp, and at times it becomes obvious - none more noticeable than North's trip to Adelaide in round 14. Let's not even get started on that one.
With some factors out of our control, we need to make our own luck from what remains. It's safe to say the side doesn't look the same, and isn't playing the same as it did in the opening rounds of the season. I'm not sure what it is. The intensity is there, so is the attack on the ball and the desperation. It seems like one or two things are missing in different games, and it all adds up and proves costly.
But it's not all doom and gloom. If the names Mason Wood, Trent Dumont and Ryan Clarke don't excite you, then I'm not sure what would. These three are having a huge impact, and showing signs that the future of this club is absolutely heading in the right direction. Ryan Clarke was outstanding on debut and I am surprised he didn't make an appearance earlier. Wood and Dumont, too, know what's going on and their attack on the ball and natural abilities is just a glimpse of where their football will be at with more experience. Majak Daw is getting more game time and looking more dangerous and showing signs of improvement every game. Brad McKenzie is finally having a run in the senior side and is doing plenty of good things - nothing better than his kicking and ability to hit up a target. Add Corey Wagner into the mix, and the future of this club is certainly looking bright.
There's one more player I want to discuss - Robbie Tarrant. The best and most consistent player all season. His transformation over the past 24 months is outstanding, and he's still in All Australian form, his individual brilliance shining through the club's rough patch.
At the moment it's another tough and frustrating patch as a North supporter. As we threaten to take the next step, we are pulled back in one way or another. The injuries are cruel and are obviously our biggest issue, but it's beginning to go further than that. Looking at the run home, based on our form and the form of other sides we face, no game from here until the end of the year looks a certain win. North does not play a side lower than 13th on the ladder (as it stands after round 16), and our last four matches come up against sides currently sitting in the top eight. For a side that has only defeated two sides currently in the 8, it appears a daunting task, and that final month may be season defining. North only play one more game outside of Melbourne (Round 22 in Hobart) and of those just one is at the MCG (Round 21 against Hawthorn). The Roos are 100% capable of winning their next three games (Port Adelaide, Collingwood and St Kilda at Etihad Stadium) bringing their season to 13 wins, and as history will suggest, they would be finals certainty from there. Do I believe we can win at least 2, maybe 3 of the final month? Absolutely. It's those last four games which could really make a difference.
It's a lot to process and a lot to think about and my thoughts are very much up in the air about it all.
While I'm unsure about where the remainder of the season is heading, I am definitely keeping positive - as you always expect the unexpected with North Melbourne.
Just prepare yourselves, this promises to be a bumpy ride.
I've been a North Melbourne supporter for a very long time now, and in all my years of going to football games I can tell you one thing. I have never walked away from a victory feeling so deflated and disappointed as I felt following round eight.
North defeated the Bombers by 14 points, to equal their best start to a season in the club's history. Yet, at the final siren, there was a standing ovation from Bombers supporters as they cheered their side off the ground, and as for North fans - no one really knew what to think.
Football is a strange, emotion fuelled game and no one summarised it better than Brad Scott; "A win that felt like a loss." Still, we are 8-0 and on top of the ladder.
You didn't even need to be at the game, or watch it for that matter, to see where things went wrong. The stats said it all. 35 first half tackles to 18 in the second: that was the big one. Intensity and desperation came crashing to a halt. Also 2.8 to 8.8 kicked after half time and the Bombers scored 7 behinds in the final term. It wasn't a great display by a side who is supposedly challenging for a top 4 spot.
We're also not playing the same football we played in the first five rounds of the season. Our scoring has come to a stop. In rounds 1-5 we scored over 100 points and in round six we fought a tough battle and it was a well deserved win. In the last 2 weeks though it's something else. We struggled to score against St Kilda and against Essendon we missed so many shots I don't have enough fingers and toes to count them all.
We seemed to put the cue in the rack at half time and that is not how you play a game of football, especially North Melbourne who have a dark history of disappointment and snatching defeat from the jaws of victory. We have all been and seen it with our own eyes too many times. But there were, as always, some positives. McDonald probably played his best game of the year while Tarrant and Thompson had an influence. It was the midfield who couldn't stop an Essendon side who just kept on running... something we definitely didn't do.
So now what? If there's one thing we do know it's that North have a remarkable way of bouncing back after disappointment, and disappointment in the form of a 14 point victory is strange. If North defeat Carlton they will officially have their best start to a season in their history, which is quite remarkable.
If Carlton are going in confident next week, I for one won't blame them. We aren't playing our best football. However, there is one thing you have to agree with and that is aside from all this discussion, North do deserve to be on top of the ladder. After all, they have won the most games so far this season - and that is the ultimate aim of the game.
So when you sit on social media, week after week, the only comments you'll find are, "who has North really beaten?" and "wait until they play a good side like Geelong or Sydney"
This suggests two things:
Firstly, the only victories which matter are ones which come against 'quality' opposition and
Secondly, Geelong and Sydney are the only genuine sides in the comp, leaving us third on the 'quality side' ladder.
As a supporter of the game, the ignorance from other supporters baffles me, because I'll tell you one thing: EVERY WIN MATTERS. Take 2014 as an example, North finished 6th at the end of the Home and Away season, and defeated every side who were placed above them at some point that year (finals included). However, they lost games to Collingwood (round 5), Brisbane (round 15) and Carlton (round 18) - who finished 11th, 13th and 15th respectively. Had we won those three matches, we would have finished fourth. So now you see my point... but I doubt the rest of the AFL world will, they'll just throw another 'who have North really beaten?' back in my face and then go home to sulk about their own side's issues. If our issues are a frustrating victory, then I'll take it any day.
But back to North Melbourne and back to their form - we need to lift. It's not a wonder North supporters were left angered at the final siren, however all we need from here is to move forward and hopefully bounce back in emphatic fashion.
Anyway, it's a lot to think about and a lot of questions will be asked, but the best answer we can give is to keep on winning. If North win in round nine, 2016 will be the best start to a season they've had in their history and no one should make them feel like they haven't deserved it or haven't done anything challenging to get themselves into that position.
But we do need to wake up and maybe that was the call we needed.
Only time will tell, I suppose.
Here's to another week and another win.
Marnie x
