Another match simulation for North Melbourne not only brought an increased level of skill and intensity, but the inclusion of two very familiar faces.

For the first time this summer, defender Robbie Tarrant and forward Ben Brown took part in the session, as the pair continue to recover from their respective pre-season setbacks.

Brown was just one of the many forwards wearing the home guernsey and benefiting from the dominance of the midfield.

Second-year player Luke Davies-Uniacke was a force to be reckoned with, using his composure and agility to weave his way through traffic and get the ball into space.

Ben Cunnington was also a major ball-winner, never failing to put his head over the ball and gain possession on the inside and in attack.

For the orange team, a dramatically slimmer Paul Ahern caught the eye of on-lookers, with his impressive vision, disposal and improved endurance putting him amongst the best.

As the mercury continued to rise in the second half, small forwards Kayne Turner and Shaun Atley came to life, using their speed and niftiness in front of goal to impact the scoreboard.  

Forward Taylor Garner was impressive once again and got through the session unscathed, while Tarryn Thomas and Bailey Scott were both lively.

And if you had any doubts over the intensity and physicality of the intraclubs, Jed Anderson’s big hit on Shaun Higgins should be enough to prove otherwise.