With the home and away season in the rear view mirror, it’s all systems go towards Adelaide Oval next Saturday night.

The Roos have won just two of their past 11 games, but with the finals’ fixture in place, previous results become irrelevant.

“A new season starts in September, we understand where we’re at,” vice-captain Jack Ziebell said.

“(We understand) where we need to improve, how we can improve and making sure we don’t leave any stone unturned before our trip to Adelaide, and making sure we can come out against the Crows in the best possible shape.

“If we get it right, which we’re confident we can, we’ll give them a real run for their money.”

It’s set to be just the second time North has met Adelaide in a final; the teams faced off in the 1998 Grand Final, and the first time the teams have played a final in South Australia.

Ziebell is relishing the opportunity to play in front of what will undoubtedly be an extremely vocal crowd.

“I think it’s exciting (going to Adelaide). Adelaide is a great city, they love their football and the South Australian people love the Crows,” he said.

“I couldn’t think of many better opportunities to get across on a Saturday night and play the Crows in front of their home crowd and try to get the win.

“I haven’t played a final in Adelaide and I’m really looking forward to the opportunity.”

In the last two years, only one side, Hawthorn, has won more than North’s four finals; a record which gives the side belief in their game style.

“Obviously playing pretty deep into the last couple of years has held us in pretty good stead and gives our guys full confidence in our ability and that our game-plan stacks up,” Ziebell said.

“We all know what’s at stake, what can be achieved and this is the reason why we play footy.

“It’s to play in finals, play in big games and win big games. Everyone’s super excited to get out there next Saturday night and show the footy public what we can do and represent our club the best way we can.”

While North’s season looked set for a higher finish than eighth when it was undefeated after nine rounds, any thoughts about what could have been aren’t entering the players’ minds.

“I don’t think too much about the past and the first half of the season,” Ziebell said.

“All I’m thinking about is next Saturday night and I’m sure all the guys and the coaches are the same here at North Melbourne and making sure we put our best foot forward.

“Each session we do out here on the track is really important for us in making sure our preparations are right and key to get the result next Saturday night.”

While the week’s break between Round 23 and the finals has been a topic of hot debate, Ziebell joined his teammates in speaking of the benefits of a rest.

“It gives ourselves a chance to freshen up, as it does everyone else who’s playing finals,” he added.

“It allows a couple of our guys who are a little sore to get up and press their claims for a spot next Saturday night.

“It’s worked in our favour and we’ll use it to our full advantage, as I’m sure everyone else will do in the finals series.”