Nathan Grima's first game back proved to be a lopsided affair with North's VFL affiliate Werribee thrashing Sandringham, but the number 17 was just happy to get the game-time.

While the ball was rarely down the defensive end, Grima says playing under a scorching sun was a great test of his progress.

"The first five minutes I was sucking in the deep breaths just dealing with the heat," he told NMFC.com.au after the Tigers' 117-point win.

"The conditions were pretty tough. Any time you play in over 34 degree heat you're going to do it hard.

"I was a little tired towards the end but it's definitely a step in the right direction for me to get back into the senior team."

Many expected the key-defender to be rushed back into the North side for the clash against the Cats, but Brad Scott's intention was always to ease him in after an extended break.

"It was more about conditioning and getting some touch back which I'm pretty happy about, and getting through those four quarters in intense conditions."

Six other North-listed players lined up for Werribee on Saturday, and Grima says he saw impressive signs, particularly from his fellow defenders.

"Ayden Kennedy was great. Every week I play with him I think he's getting closer and closer to being a senior player.

"Taylor Hine just competes all day and has been a really good pick-up for the club.

"It's great the way we can play solidly together, the North boys and Werribee boys. We're trying to work on similar things and the Werribee guys buy in really well."

Development coach John Lamont was pleased with all the Kangaroos' representatives, with Grima, Levi Greenwood and one of North's newest arrivals Mason Wood praised.

"Grima and Greenwood were both very solid contributors. The defenders were all really strong and Levi's two goals were pleasing," Lamont said.

"Mason really impressed me today after significantly improving on his performance last week."

Ben Speight also played well, while potential father-son recruit Luke McDonald kicked two goals while development coach, former Swan Jarred Moore booted three goals.

Lamont saw plenty of positives from a team perspective.

"It was a real test on such a hot day. I was really pleased with the players' attitudes. They stuck to their tasks and didn't drop their standards."

Sandringham 4.4.28
Werribee 22.15.147

Goals: Brown 3, Moore 3, B. Ross 3, McDonald 2, Maric 2, Warren 2, Hicks 2, Greenwood 2, Martiniello, Castello , Keras 1.