North fell to its second loss of the season on Saturday night, a gallant effort against Geelong proving not enough as the Cats’ midfielders dominated the game.

Despite an even start on the scoreboard, North was already struggling for numbers by the time of the first break.

Herald Sun

“A heavy tackle late in the first quarter ended Kangaroos’ captain Andrew Swallow’s night and his teammates were also hurting. Midfield gun Ben Cunnington copped a hit to his leg, Robin Nahas had treatment on a finger and Shaun Atley limped from the ground late in the fourth.” – Eliza Sewell

The second quarter was a Brent Harvey masterclass. Three goals for the term – and four before half-time – had his side 10 points up at the long break.

AFL.com.au

“In game 421, the North Melbourne champion had kicked four goals before half-time in a typical elusive display. He bobbed up inside 50 to take marks or kicked goals on the run. The 38-year-old has 23 goals in his 12 games this season.” – Peter Ryan

The Twittersphere

However Geelong was able to turn the tide after the main break, kicking seven goals in the third term to establish what would turn out to be a match-winning break.

Despite North being short of manpower as the night wore on, there were still a number of brave performances.

AFL.com.au

“Daniel Wells started brightly for the Roos and fought against the tide all match, finishing with 31 touches, while Sam Gibson (34) and Jack Ziebell (22, two goals) never gave up the fight.” – Travis King

Now the focus turns to Hawthorn on Friday night, and the availability of several Roos will be a key topic throughout the week.

Herald Sun

“They were always going to come if they lost to the big boys, such as Sydney and now Geelong, but perspective after Saturday night is needed. Andrew Swallow sat early with concussion, Ben Cunnington couldn’t run, Nick Dal Santo was sore in the groin, Shaun Atley had an ankle and Robbie Nahas had a bone sticking out of his finger at one stage.

“They led at halftime, challenged through the third quarter and couldn’t sustain it. Missed Jacobs who would have had Selwood so it ended up being the perfect storm for the Kangas. Problem now is patching up ahead of Hawthorn this week.” – Mark Robinson