NMFC.com.au presents stats and facts relating to the two clubs in the lead up to Saturday night’s clash.
• North has just a 2-9 win-loss record against Brisbane at the Gabba.
Without a win at the ground since Round 10, 2005 it is one of the club’s longest streaks of any kind.
In the Kangaroos’ last victory, Nathan Thompson kicked five goals to earn the three Brownlow Medal votes as North won by 19 points.
• Against the Brisbane Lions, North has had six games end with a result under 10 points.
The Kangaroos have won four of them, with one draw in 2003.
North’s most recent close game against the Lions was in 2010 at Etihad Stadium. Despite holding a significant half-time lead, the Roos found themselves behind late in the final term.
A late Levi Greenwood goal from an acute angle turned out to be the game-winner in a thrilling finish.
• The winner of Saturday night’s clash will edge ahead in the all-time record.
So far the two sides have faced each other 27 times. The ledger is square at 13 with one draw.
• Dating back to its days as Fitzroy, North’s first victory over the Lions in 1927 was highlighted by the dramatic return of Syd Barker.
Making a comeback to the Roos at the age of 39, Barker was the captain-coach for the year.
Despite North winning three of its first four matches and surprisingly sitting on the top of the ladder, Barker only coached for one year after the Roos ended up finishing second last.
• David King, Anthony Stevens and Corey McKernan all played their last AFL games at the Gabba against Brisbane.
Unfortunately for North it wasn’t a night to remember. Playing against one of the eventual Grand Finalists, the Roos faded badly in the second half and lost by 113 points.
• Despite an impressive tally of 159 career Brownlow Medal votes, Brent Harvey only has three against the Lions.
Among current players, Drew Petrie leads all Kangaroos against Brisbane with eight Brownlow votes.
Written with assistance from Ange Cristoforo
