Despite suffering a heavy loss to Essendon, there were a number of strong performances in the VFL on Saturday. 

With some players also fighting to prove their fitness, competition for spots is again high.

North Media looks at those who could be in the mix for a call-up.

Defenders

Sam Wright was amongst North’s best in difficult conditions, showing calmness and leadership across the backline while collecting 24 disposals.

Sam Durdin could be recalled to the senior side after a week off. He was the carry-over emergency and did not see any action on the weekend.

Joel Crocker is improving every week, once again impressing with a hard-fought 16 disposals.

Midfielders

Tom Campbell registered yet another brilliant performance, amassing 29 disposals, 38 hitouts and a goal.

Luke Davies-Uniacke responded to his AFL omission by collecting 31 disposals and laying 11 tackles running through the midfield.

Shaun Higgins could return from a shoulder injury that has kept him on the sidelines for the past five weeks.

Forwards

Lachie Hosie continued his fine form since being picked up in the mid-season draft, kicking two of North’s four goals on the weekend.

Mason Wood looks set to return from the minor quad injury that kept him out of last weekend’s loss to Essendon.