IN a game that had important implications shaping the top six on the ladder, North Melbourne continued to show why it may be a dark horse, getting the chocolates over Collingwood at North Hobart Oval by 23 points, 6.2 (38) to 2.3 (15). With teams such as the Gold Coast Suns and Western Bulldogs wanting that last spot in the top six, the result could be costly for the Pies as the finals positions start to take shape.

TALKING POINTS

North Melbourne had control majority of the match

Give credit where credit is due, with the Kanagroos increasing their intensity and pressure in the later stages of the match. As Collingwood continued its fight back into the match, the Kangaroos worked well as a unit, shutting down the likes of Chloe Molloy’s influence and forcing the Magpies to find other options and find others to step up.

Kangaroos dominating most categories

A major factor the Kangaroos should be happy about is having majority of the categories in their favour. The number of inside 50s North Melbourne had (42-20), will be something the Kangaroos must continue to do, especially coming up against the likes of Melbourne and Brisbane in the near future. Other key categories they topped were the contested possessions, 101-85 and hit outs, 26-18.

Collingwood desperate to find answers

No doubt this match will hurt the Magpies. One key thing is finding the right balance and getting players into positions most comfortable. Losing the likes of Brianna Davey and Stephanie Chiocci, the Magpies will definitely need others to step into giant sized boots. When times got tough throughout the match, questions will be asked whether there were back-up plans if Plan A wasn’t working. No doubt the fight was there, but with an in-form Bulldogs next, Collingwood will be keen to have a good week on the training track.

Maligned Molloy

With Molloy not having much impact in the game, no doubt the Magpies need to find a position for her where she can dominate and do what she does best. With some injuries hurting her earlier in the season, Collingwood would love to have a player of Molloy’s class get back into form with a few rounds left in the season.

NEXT WEEK

North Melbourne next faces the Melbourne Demons in a massive test on the February 26 at Casey Fields, whilst Collingwood faces a must-win situation against an in-form Western Bulldogs at Victoria Park.