North Melbourne’s season was the best of any side outside the top eight according to football expert Rohan Connolly.

“You might raise your eyebrows but I’ve given the Roos an ‘A’ for this year; I thought they were excellent,” Connolly told said.

“They finished ninth with 12 wins, doubling their 2017 win tally.

“Most people tipped them to win the wooden spoon or finish second last, so they surprised everyone.”

The respected footy writer credits the Roos’ top-end talent for playing at the level the side did this year.

“They had great seasons from Shaun Higgins, Ben Cunnington and Ben Brown, who came second in the Coleman Medal, he was terrific for them,” Connolly, a guest on The Marngrook Footy Show said on Wednesday night.

“The Roos still need a bit of pace, but I think they can continue to climb up the ladder next year.”