A winning streak and a small injury list; two ideal circumstances with a fortnight remaining before finals.
Those factors also create plenty of competition for spots in the North 22, with an important match against the Western Bulldogs coming up on Saturday.
With a September appearance all but secured, a win at Etihad Stadium will do the trick.
NMFC.com.au looks at those in the mix for selection. Have your say on the potential changes below.
Midfielders
After missing a week due to suspension, Jack Ziebell is assured of an immediate recall. The vice-captain had played all 19 games before his enforced absence last week.
While Daniel Wells completed a full game at VFL development level for Werribee and emerged unscathed, development coach Gavin Brown believes he needs more miles in the legs.
“He showed some real speed and power at times but couldn’t really get going,” Brown said post-match on Saturday.
RELATED: Wells’ comeback continues
“Judging on that today, he’s still got a little way to go.”
Trent Dumont and Brad McKenzie enjoyed a week off with North Ballarat due to a bye in the VFL. The form of both will have them in the mix if there are changes made to the midfield setup outside of the expected Ziebell selection.
Forwards
Considering how the Bulldogs set up a lot of their run off the half back line, the pressure applied by North’s small forwards will be crucial on Saturday.
With that in mind, Kayne Turner increased his chances of a recall after collecting 18 possessions in an impressive performance for Werribee.
Kieran Harper had his best game for the year, and stated post-match he was feeling the best he had all year.
“I feel a lot closer to a recall today than what I did a couple of weeks ago.”
RELATED: Harper’s confidence rising
Taylor Garner also had last week off; rested after playing six games in a row. However Brad Scott’s comments when the team for Fremantle was picked suggests the 21-year-old will be right in contention for an immediate recall.
“I think the time's come for 'Garns' to freshen up. He won't play at any level this week and we'll look to get him really well recovered and give him every opportunity to come up and play his best footy when he comes back into the side."
Defenders
Holding Fremantle to just five goals after quarter time suggests the defensive unit is performing well.
Nevertheless the Bulldogs will be a different challenge to the Dockers, boasting an array of quality medium sized forwards.
Aaron Mullett and Scott McMahon could come back into the side to deal with the variety of options, ensuring North is adequately covered at ground level.
