The performance of ruckman Todd Goldstein dominated the media’s coverage of North’s gritty win over the Bombers.

Goldstein had an impressive 27 touches to go with his 55 hit-outs, six marks and a goal in a game many said the big man put his hand up for Brownlow Medal consideration.

AFL.com.au

“Roos fans must shudder to think where their side would be this year without Todd Goldstein, who must have been rubbing his hands together at the prospect of taking on part-timer Shaun McKernan on Friday night.” – Travis King

Herald Sun

“Goldstein, the All-Australian elect, munched on makeshift ruckman Shaun McKernan in what was officially the most dominant performance by a player this season.” – Sam Edmund

The Age

“In a match in which the gap was marginal and margin not enormous, Todd Goldstein was the bleeding obvious difference between the victors and the vanquished.” – Jake Niall

Fellow big man Ben Brown also drew plenty of applause for his four goal haul, picking up a mark of the year nomination along the way.

AFL.com.au

“Brown inspired his teammates with his strong marking – clunking a towering mark in the first term – and accurate 4.1 return, helping the Kangas to get ahead of the win-loss ledger for just the second time this year at 8-7.” – Travis King

With North trailing the fresh-faced Bombers at half time, it was a strong third quarter that impressed those watching on.

AAP

“A lacklustre North trailed by eight points when an all-in melee erupted as the players were leaving the field for halftime. Perhaps it was the spark the Kangaroos needed because a horror Heppell turnover soon after the restart allowed Brown in for his second goal of the night as North put on a three-goal burst.” – Jason Phelan

Meanwhile, Ben Jacobs has continued to impress in his role as North’s run with player, keeping the Bombers’ stand-in-captain, Dyson Heppell to a below-average evening.

Herald Sun

“Ben Jacobs was diligent in his tagging job on Dyson Heppell, restricting the Dons’ stand-in captain to 16 touches - only five of them kicks.” – Sam Edmund

Now, all focus turns to Brent Harvey’s 400th, as the Roos head north to take on the Lions.

And coach Brad Scott told media after the game this week would be one every football fan would remember as the industry marks ‘Boomer’s’ contribution to the game.

“It is a great celebration for our club. He has been an icon not only of North Melbourne but I think of AFL footy,” Scott said.

“It is a great achievement, but the win will be first and foremost in (the club’s) mind.”