The North Melbourne Tasmanian Kangaroos didn’t have it all their own way in Saturday’s close-fought victory over Collingwood, and according to Scott Gowans, that’s exactly what his team needed.

Gowans said North’s ability to stand up under pressure will hold it in good stead for the rest of the finals’ series.

“I’m really proud of the fact that we were challenged by a good footy side (Collingwood), with pressure, the way they move the footy, their belief in what they do with their systems … and then we were able to come through in the end,” he said.

“Those games of footy are ones that can go either way, and fortunately today, with a little bit of good luck as well, I thought the girls really responded after half-time with their intensity and effort; that’s what got us through.”

After playing in front of a capacity crowd at Arden Street just a fortnight ago, it was a vastly different feel at Ikon Park.

With fans and families unable to attend, North's AFLW staff went to work to make the players feel at home.

“We mentioned before the game that we need to create our own environment, whether it’s the trainers, the physios, people on the bench, if you’re on a rotation … everyone on the ground needs to be loud, and all those supporting our cause,” Gowans said.

“You form your own little community and hopefully we did the club proud, and the supporters are pretty pleased watching it on their couches.”

North will take on the winner of tomorrow's Carlton/Brisbane clash in a preliminary final next week. 

Watch the full media conference below.