He's been a star for many years now, but Ben Cunnington's importance to the North Melbourne team was no more evident than in Round 1.

Four points down at three quarter-time, the Roos sent Cunnington forward. It proved the match-winning move, with the brilliant number 10 booting two goals to guide his team to victory. 

With 25 disposals to fill out the stats sheet, the midfielder polled a perfect ten votes from the coaches, while Jared Polec got six.

The silky-skilled wingman had 25 possessions, receiving great service from big man Todd Goldstein, who amassed 14 touches, 27 hit-outs and a goal. 

North Melbourne v St Kilda votes

10 - Ben Cunnington (NMFC)
6 - Jared Polec (NMFC)
6 - Zak Jones (STK)
4 - Todd Goldstein (NMFC)
2 - Jack Billings (STK)
1 - Jack Steele (STK)
1 - Dan Hannebery (STK)