He may have been named best on ground in North’s stunning elimination final win over Richmond, but veteran Brent Harvey says much of the credit should go to tagger Ben Jacobs.

Assigned the role on Trent Cotchin, Jacobs restricted the Richmond captain to just nine touches in a huge effort.

"The last eight weeks since he's taken up that (tagging) role, he's been great," Harvey told ABC Grandstand.

"Brady Rawlings was great for us in that role, but he (Jacobs) has been getting some fantastic scalps.

"Week one of the finals it doesn't get any bigger than (beating) Trent Cotchin."

Finding players that fill a specific need has been strength of the Kangaroos according to the 37-year-old, with Jarrad Waite and Shaun Higgins also playing their part.

"Shaun Higgins has been outstanding in terms of his playing leadership," Harvey said.

"We've seen what Jarrad Waite can do today when he gets the opportunity."

Harvey had a game-high 31 possession and kicked two goals in the 17-point win at the MCG and said the Roos are better placed than last year heading to Sydney.

"We've got more confidence of making (this year's) prelim," he said.