While the total score was marred by inaccuracy (17.23) and prevented a higher winning margin than 87 points, a look at the scoring chart reveals a number of interesting points.
A lot of the areas the Kangaroos have excelled at in front of goals were problem spots against Brisbane.
Using the first seven rounds as a bigger sample size than just the victory against the Lions, the safe assumption is the inaccuracy in front of goals won’t continue on.
The below images show North Melbourne’s kicking on goal in the first seven rounds compared to Round 9.
Image 1: Rounds 1-7
Image 2: Round 9
Leading up to the clash against Brisbane, NMFC.com.au highlighted the potential for North to get on top at stoppages.
It turned out to be the case at Etihad. Brad Scott’s side had a strong advantage in both scores from stoppages and contested possessions. After the late withdrawal of Tom Rockliff, the Kangaroos took full advantage in close.
| Round 9 | Total points from stoppages | Contested possessions |
| North Melbourne | 42 | 147 |
| Brisbane | 13 | 88 |
| Differential | +29 | +59 |
Perhaps the best aspect of the win was North’s extremely strong start. Following the loss to Gold Coast, Scott singled out first quarters as a major area of improvement, lamenting how the side were the best starters in the competition during 2013.
It was comfortably the Roos’ best scoring first quarter of the season; 5.5.35 beating the previous high of 3.4.22 against Sydney in Round 4. All the important statistics showed the side’s dominance.
| Round 9 | Disposals | Contested possessions | Disposal efficiency |
| North Melbourne | 102 | 41 | 78.4% |
| Brisbane | 56 | 23 | 63.9% |
| Differential | +46 | +18 | +14.5% |
