North’s youngsters are showing great signs of development and maturity early in their careers, according to Senior Assistant Coach Gavin Brown.

The Roos’ emerging players had a key role in the VFL team’s win over the Northern Blues on Sunday, and it didn’t go unnoticed by the coaching staff.

“It was fantastic, they were right under the pump. It was really tough and trying conditions,” Senior Assistant Coach Gavin Brown told North Media.

“We didn’t start that well and it wasn’t our best game, but to finish off that last quarter … it was just fantastic for the boys to show enormous mental resolve and fight.

“To see their expressions on their face and the way they reacted on the final siren showed it meant a hell of a lot to them.”

The challenge of developing and integrating the VFL and AFL players has been exciting for Brown, and so far he’s been impressed with what he’s seen.

“They all played their part. In fact, they more than played their part,” he said.

“They were influential in winning the game and the integration between the VFL and AFL-listed boys has been first-class.”

Brown noted the individual performances of promising pair Mason Wood and Declan Mountford, with the latter securing the win with his last-gasp goal. He also gave credence to the efforts of Cameron Zurhaar and Tristan Xerri, who made themselves known in high pressure circumstances.

“It was trying conditions but Mason Wood was trying to get his game going in the second quarter, but then unfortunately with his injury, went off. That was a little bit disappointing for him,” Brown said.

“Same with Declan Mountford, I thought he started really well in his new role up forward and then got the injury.

“Cam Zurhaar was influential and Tristan Xerri, I thought he was possibly the most influential in the second half on the ground. I really liked his game.”

Brown said there is no room for complacency as it looks to build on momentum against Frankston this weekend.

“We certainly can’t [be complacent], we’ve learnt that the hard way. We’ll be ready to go,” he added.

“We got beaten by the AIS a few weeks ago, which was a good lesson cause we took them lightly. Then on the weekend in trying conditions, we probably weren’t at our best.

“So there’s no doubt we won’t be taking anyone lightly.”

Fans are invited to attend Saturday’s VFL match against the Frankston Dolphins at Avalon Airport Oval, with the first bounce at 2.00pm. Entry to home games is free for NMFC members.