North Melbourne's VFL team returned to Arden Street Oval on Saturday for another pre-season hitout.

The Kangaroos fell narrowly to the Cats as veteran defenders Luke McDonald and Aidan Corr made it through their capped game time unscathed.

NMFC Media spoke with coach Adam Marcon following the match.

What the coach said

"Despite going down by a goal or so, we were really pleased with the response of the boys after a bit of a slow start to the game," Marcon said.

"We thought the boys adjusted really well and they were able to get themselves back in the game through our pressure and attitude to the contest.

"We have one more practice game against Essendon next weekend at Arden Street which will see more AFL-listed players available as we move towards our first official VFL hitout in Round 2."

Luke McDonald

"It was great to have Luke return strongly after his injury.

"His leadership and experience were invaluable for our young backline. His defensive positioning and ability to intercept were sharp. He played three quarters and got through the game well."

Aidan Corr

"'Corry' played a half and got through it positively in his return from a calf injury. He was tough to play against and tenacious at the contest as he always is.

"We love his voice and communication in the back half, and he will continue to move towards full game time over the coming weeks."

Charlie Spargo

"Unfortunately, Charlie received a head knock early in the game and entered concussion protocols."

"Charlie felt like he had symptoms of concussion come on while on the bench after coming off the ground … he was removed from the contest," added North Melbourne head of performance Kevin White.

Brayden George

"Brayden is continuing to develop his game in the forward half but also on the wing at times," Marcon said.

"His ability to penetrate the game with his kicking was a real highlight this week."

Josh Goater

"'Goat' played across half-back and on the wing, and again, he looked really sharp for someone who has missed a lot of games due to injury.

"His athleticism and kicking are real standouts at the level."

Cooper Harvey

"Cooper played across half-back and impacted well with ball in hand and was able to locate and shut down his opponent effectively in transition."

Callum Coleman-Jones

"'CJ' rucked for us and did a great job throughout the day.

"He was able to impact the game in the ruck contests but also around the ground to help support our defence in particular."

Bailey Scott

"'Scotty' played on the wing and was really clean with his ground-ball efforts and helped both offensively and defensively with his run."

Colby McKercher

McKercher didn't feature in the practice match.

"Match Committee wanted Colby to train with the AFL squad to get connection with that group before this weekend's match," White said.