The significance of North’s win against the Crows was illustrated by its supremacy in key statistical categories; contested possession, clearances and inside 50’s. Winning in those areas will be pivotal to the Kangaroos’ fortunes facing St Kilda.

Brad Scott’s team had 19 more contested possession than its South Australian opponent on Sunday, and Adelaide’s tally of 115 was its lowest of the season (previous low 138). Going into the match the visitors were the highest-ranked team in the league in that category, meaning North Melbourne’s effort demands respect.

It’s an area there will be plenty of focus on again. The Saints sit alongside Melbourne, Port Adelaide, Greater Western Sydney and Gold Coast at the bottom of the table for contested ball, though Nick Dal Santo and Lenny Hayes are both in the top 20 in the league for the statistic - they can’t be underestimated.

Similarly, the Kangaroos surprised many with their control in the middle last week. It’s interesting to note they are yet to win when beaten for clearances. When you consider the Saints have outdone their opponents in the clearance category in their last seven games (for four wins), the importance of the midfield battle is clear. Andrew Swallow sits third in the competition (84), with Hayes not far behind (76). Statistics suggest the team that gets the upper hand here is well on their way to winning.

North’s power forwards were at their best on the weekend; 19 marks inside 50 was the highest tally among all teams and the emergence of Robbie Tarrant (five marks inside 50) made a huge difference to its efficiency going into attack. Of significance, the figure was the club’s highest since the Round 3 victory against Geelong.

But while the Kangaroos pride themselves on their tall marking options, St Kilda’s attacking options are equally as daunting. The Saints lead the league (158 at 13 per game) for marks inside in the arc, with a reliance on their inspirational captain Nick Riewoldt (40 for season - 2nd in league) to stand up when it matters. Stephen Milne’s numbers (23 marks inside 50) may come as a shock given his small stature, but there’s little question Riewoldt’s availability is absolutely vital to St Kilda’s chances. With Justin Koschitzke also more than capable, there’ll be plenty for North’s key-defenders to contend with.

When it’s all said and done, arguably the most important touches come from the ruckman at the centre bounce. Sitting last for hit-outs, the Saints have proven they can shark the opposition’s big men (eighth for clearances), and with Ben McEvoy finally back in the fold, made the most of first use (43 clearances to 36) against the Crows a fortnight ago.

Todd Goldstein, billed as one of the finest tap ruckman around, has returned to form in recent weeks without finding any real consistency. With barely two months left in the season and no Hamish McIntosh, the pressure becomes all the greater for the number 22. If he can provide quality tap work for his midfielders, North’s chances of a win increase dramatically.