North Melbourne's AFL selection committee will have plenty to think about ahead of round one after eye-catching performances by the Kangaroos' new arrivals in Friday's intraclub match.
No.1 draftee Jason Horne-Francis topped the highlight reel with a soaring pack mark and goal, but there were also promising displays from livewire young forwards Paul Curtis and Eddie Ford, while Callum Coleman-Jones continued to show his ability to give the Roos first bite at the contests.
Nick Larkey kicked three goals in the four-quarter hit-out at Arden St Oval, with two apiece from Ford, Cam Zurhaar, Will Phillips, Jack Mahony and Jared Polec.
Luke Davies-Uniacke had lots of the ball in the midfield alongside an industrious Phillips.
Pacey defender Aaron Hall was everywhere early before hitting the bench in the later quarters, while key tall Ben McKay impressed in the backline, catching the eye of Kangaroos GM Football Brady Rawlings on the broadcast.
"Ben's been a real standout," Rawlings said. "He's one that took his game to another level last year after being in and out of the side for a few years. We're hoping he does it again in 2022. We think he can be one of the best in the competition in his role."
The battle for the club's ruck spots continued to gather pace, with Tristan Xerri and Todd Goldstein both competing for the hit-outs alongside trade period arrival Coleman-Jones, who took a series of strong grabs.
"I think Cam can really emerge and take that No.1 ruck spot in the future," Rawlings said of the impressive Coleman-Jones. "The beauty about Cal is he can fit any ruck combination. He's got that versatility which is very valuable. In the future we see him as playing a vital role for us in the ruck."
What's next?
The Roos' pre-season steps up another gear with a practice match against reigning premiers Melbourne at Casey Fields next Thursday, ahead of the club's season opener against Hawthorn at the MCG on Sunday, March 20.
>> Check out the Kangaroos' 2022 AFL fixture here and sync the fixture to your calendar
