Signalling the importance of building on a six-goal win over the Saints, Simpson says the battle for the top eight is well and truly on.
"There's probably about six sides that have cemented their spot, but there's probably about four or five that are really fighting (it) out for two spots in the eight, so every week's going to be huge,” he told the media on Monday.
"The Kangaroos are one of those sides, along with us. So this week we're really looking forward to the contest.”
Jarrad Waite is considered some chance to make his comeback from a left knee injury, with the potential for added firepower making for an intriguing clash.
The Blues sit in ninth place on the AFL ladder, while North is a further game behind in 11th, but Simpson believes Brad Scott’s team will have a point to prove after surrendering another winning lead.
"Both teams have had a couple of close losses throughout the year. I know that they (the Kangaroos) are going to want to bounce back. We are really looking forward to it.
"We just have to continue winning. It we continue winning we should make the finals.”
Andrew Carrazzo is one player who’ll be looking to return to form. He had just seven disposals on the weekend, but his fellow vice-captain expects him to turn things around against North.
"He's a super player. You've got to remember he had eight or nine weeks out so to come straight back in and pick up the pace of the game is obviously tough, but he'll be better for the run. He's just got to get more match fitness.
"He's a ball winner and a key tagger as well for our side, so I've got no doubt he'll respond this week."
