North Melbourne have finally won their first match of the AFL season by belting the Brisbane Lions by 63 points at Etihad Stadium.

Fullback Scott Thompson and on-baller Jack Ziebell were amongst the best players for the Kangaroos, who won 18.17 (125) to 9.8 (62).

The victory – following those by Carlton and Melbourne earlier in round four – left the GWS Giants the only winless team after four rounds.

North Melbourne had endured a fiendishly difficult start to the season, coming up short against Collingwood, Geelong and Sydney.

But they were never troubled against the Lions, with Drew Petrie and Lindsay Thomas booting four goals apiece.

Sudanese-born Majak Daw made a flying start to his AFL career with a spectacular mark and goal in the opening minute.

But his game ended prematurely when he was subbed off suffering concussion after an accidental clash of heads.

North Melbourne play Hawthorn at the MCG next Sunday while Brisbane host Melbourne.