Having recovered from a fractured jaw suffered in Round 15, star ruck Tristan Xerri is expected to return for Sunday's clash with Port Adelaide.

The tall notched 19 disposals, 16 hitouts and 10 tackles when the Kangaroos met the Power back in Round 1 and would be a welcome return as North Melbourne looks to clinch a fourth straight victory.

Bailey Scott continued his strong form at VFL level to remain in the frame for a maiden senior call-up in 2026.

Playing more of an inside midfielder role, Scott kicked one goal from his 31 touches against Essendon at Arden Street Oval.

Also heavily contributing to that last-gasp, three-point victory over the Bombers was mid-season draftee Ollie Griffin, who again hit the scoreboard.

The Sandringham Dragons product snagged three goals to take his tally to 10 from his past three appearances.

Griffin was ably supported inside 50 by Kangaroo rookie Lachy Dovaston who kicked two majors from nine possessions.

In his return from a groin injury, Tom Powell grabbed 19 disposals, while young ruck Taylor Goad responded to his AFL side omission with 23 hitouts and five clearances.

Defenders Riley Hardeman and Griffin Logue staked their claims for recalls to Alastair Clarkson's line-up.

Hardeman found the footy 18 times, while Logue tallied 19 disposals and six intercepts – the most of any Roo.

Zac Fisher was lively against Essendon, finishing with 26 disposals and 10 grabs, while River Stevens collected 16 touches, six inside 50s and kicked a goal as he continues to work towards an opportunity at the highest level.