North Melbourne could make a big leap in 2018 off the back of yesterday’s fixture release, according to football expert Rohan Connolly.

The veteran journalist has identified the Roos as possible “bolter for next year”.

“… based on the widespread forecasts of doom and gloom about its future, check out the hand North Melbourne has been dealt by the fixturers before you scoff too much about the Roos’ 2018 prospects,” he said on the footyology.com.au website.

“By my measure, the Roos have by some margin the best draw for 2018, playing just one top eight team (Sydney) but both the bottom two (Brisbane and Gold Coast) from this year twice.”

Connolly says North’s narrow losses last season also indicate a side more than capable of playing high-quality football against the top ranked clubs.

“They make only five road trips (not including their home games in Hobart, where they have now won 11 of 15 games), only one of which is in Perth. And the Roos also have a real chance to get off to a good start, with their first clash with a 2017 finalist not coming until round six.

“Not bad for a side which while it only won six games, lost another five by a combined total of just 14 points, effectively three goals away from an 11-win season.”