The tackling pressure of North Melbourne was a highlight on Friday night, as it registered one of its biggest differentials of the season.

That pressure was particularly influential in the first half as the Kangaroos worked their way to a 10-point lead at the long break.

The disposal count was relatively even – Richmond only led it by 15 – and the time in possession was almost dead even. However North had laid 46 tackles to 25.

Every Roo in the starting 21 had at least one tackle to their name, with Majak Daw leading the way.

Replacing the rested Todd Goldstein, Daw was one of North’s best to half time. The 24-year-old had six tackles to go with his two goals.

Even without the likes of Andrew Swallow, Ben Cunnington, Nick Dal Santo and Goldstein, through Daw and the midfielders, North was able to battle in the contest during the first half, earning its lead.

On the outside, Shaun Atley and Sam Gibson collected 24 first half possessions between them, offering plenty of run and carry.

Atley finished with 20 disposals and six clearances for the evening. The clearance number was a career-high and could potentially be a wildcard this Sunday at the MCG.

Before Round 23, Atley had only 13 total clearances in 19 AFL matches this season. However in his fortnight at VFL level in June, the 22-year-old had 14 clearances.

Adding some extra leg speed into the midfield, Atley is one of the Roos capable of burning away from a pack.

Another new sight from Friday was Taylor Garner spending some time at centre bounces. Before the game, the youngster had only appeared in the middle at one occasion in his first seven games of 2015. However, he was at five against the Tigers, perhaps providing a glimpse into where he’ll be spending more time in future seasons.

Down back, Lachlan Hansen turned in another good performance against Richmond. The defender has enjoyed some quality outings against the Tigers in the past, all based around his marking ability.

In Hansen’s last four matches against Richmond, he’s averaged 11 marks and 17 disposals, almost identical numbers to what he managed last Friday night.

A similar output will be needed on Sunday. Despite the defensive unit keeping Richmond’s key forwards well held for most of the night, they were important in the nine-goal last quarter. Vickery and Riewoldt kicked five between them. While Martin is not technically a key position forward, he also floated closer to goal in the last term and kicked three of his own.

North Melbourne will hold an open training session this Saturday (September 12, 2015) at Arden Street from 11.15am-12.00pm.