At 23 years old and two seasons into his AFL career, some could argue that time is running out for Josh Smith to stamp his authority on the AFL.

But for the 2008 debutant, the task ahead is simple; continue to work on the flaws in his game and earn more opportunities at the highest level.

"I've kept improving, the coach would always say we should improve every week. I think I've done that and hopefully next year I'll get a few more opportunities in the seniors."

For now though, Smith's primary focus is on Friday night's VFL battle against the Northern Bullants.

"The North boys have played most of the year at (North) Ballarat, so it's pretty much our team and we're very keen to get another premiership."

Just a year ago, the hard working forward took home the Norm Goss Medal for best afield as the Roosters defeated Port Melbourne to take the 2008 premiership home to Ballarat.

Smith kicked five goals that night, but this year will look to work with teammates Aaron Edwards, Michael Wundke and Corey Jones up forward as they go head to head with some experienced Bullants' defenders.

"Pretty much four of the six in attack are North Melbourne players so it helps us work together as well," Smith added.

"The best we've worked together was probably last Saturday against Collingwood, we all clicked and we all kicked a few and helped each other, so if we could do something like that again it would be great."

While the number 18 will rely heavily on the help of his North Melbourne teammates, he considers North Ballarat's VFL listed players just as important to the club's success.

"A lot of the VFL players could easily be on AFL lists. They were probably a bit stiff last year in that a lot of their players didn't get picked up when a few of us thought they would. So hopefully they put on a good show on Friday night and a couple of them find themselves at AFL clubs."

Smith and the Roosters will take part in the 2009 VFL Grand Final this Friday night at Etihad Stadium. Entry is just $20 for adults, and kids under 15 are FREE with the first bounce taking place at 7.10pm.