Jack Ziebell says North’s pressure and intensity early in the contest were the keys to Friday night’s win over Collingwood.

The Roos kicked six goals to two in the opening term, gaining ascendancy through the midfield, an area they’ve struggled in, in recent weeks.

“It was a good start. The first probably nine rounds of the year it’s (pressure) something we did really well,” Ziebell told Fox Footy.

“We thought that dropped off over the last month, so we had a big emphasis that we wanted to really try and out-pressure Collingwood, who are a really good pressure side themselves.

“We called it ‘the pressure battle’ and I thought the boys executed really well from the start, and that was a big factor in the game.

“It was a massive focus going into the game to make sure that we got off to a good start and gave ourselves every opportunity.”

North’s on-ballers gained an edge over the Magpies, with the likes of Sam Gibson (33 disposals), Daniel Wells (29) and Ryan Clarke (27) setting the standard.

Ziebell was also influential with 20 disposals and two goals.

“That was something we were disappointed with last week (losing the midfield battle) and over the last month that’s something that’s probably dropped away a little bit,” he said.

“It was good to get back on top, but we’re not after a one-week effort. We are after an effort that’s going to be consistent over the last half of the year and put us in a good position come the end of the year.”

Ziebell said he knew North would be able to change its fortunes, despite five losses in a row.

“It (a losing streak) tests the character, but I’ve got full belief in what we are doing at North Melbourne, and the boys in the team I had no doubts (they) would get the result tonight.”