Another Friday, another match simulation for the North Melbourne players; this time in the midst of a Victorian heatwave.
While many would have sought refuge inside, the Roos’ endurance and fight was put to the test in near-40 degree weather.
It was Shaun Higgins that stood out in the trying conditions, using his elite disposal and impressive endurance to impact the game.
Not only did Higgins get his hands dirty in the middle of the ground, but the 30-year-old also pushed inside forward 50 to hit the scoreboard on more than one occasion.
Once again it was Arden Street’s newest faces who were amongst the best, with Dom Tyson impressing, along with first-year players Tarryn Thomas and Bailey Scott.
Tyson’s balance of contested and uncontested possessions made him a handful for his opponents, while Thomas proved a dangerous threat in the attacking half of the ground, as did Scott, who continues to show plenty of hunger and determination in his first pre-season.
In what were promising signs, dynamic forward Taylor Garner found himself on the end of a couple of majors.
Jed Anderson was at his typical hard-nosed best, alongside Jy Simpkin, whose evasiveness and electricity around the contest complemented the number three.
Playing much of the first half in the forward-line, Simpkin spent more time in the middle of the ground for the backend of the session as he continues to get a feel for the midfield craft.
See the best photos from the session here:
Ben McKay
Shaun Higgins
Luke McDonald and Tarryn Thomas
Tom Murphy
Jy Simpkin
Jed Anderson, Jared Polec and Kayne Turner
Taylor Garner
