North Melbourne have scored their finest win of the AFL season after upsetting Geelong by 10 points in Friday night’s round-19 clash at Etihad Stadium.
Top-eight hopefuls North were victorious 15.6 (96) to 13.8 (86) to improve their win-loss record to 8-10, while the Cats are in danger of losing second spot to Sydney later this weekend after recording just their fourth loss for the year.
The Kangaroos led by 20 points at halftime and eight points at three-quarter time before holding firm with a three-goal final term to Geelong’s two goals.
Former skipper Brent Harvey, 35, had a game-high 37 disposals while Daniel Wells also used his pace to advantage for the Kangaroos with a four-goal performance.
Steven Motlop was Geelong’s leading goalscorer with three after big man Tom Hawkins was held to one goal as he labours with a back complaint.
Friday’s win was sweet revenge for the Kangaroos.
North had led Geelong by 35 points at halftime of their round-two clash in 2013 but the Cats fought back to win by four points in the first of five losses by less than a goal which the Kangaroos have suffered this season.
Lachie Hansen continued his excellent season in defence for the Kangaroos and had 30 touches while ruckman Todd Goldstein and onballer Jack Ziebell were also influential and Ryan Bastinac kicked three goals including two in the final term.
Steve Johnson, Jimmy Bartel and defender Corey Enright were among Geelong’s leading ball-winners.
Geelong host Port Adelaide at Simonds Stadium on August 10 while North face Adelaide at AAMI Stadium the following day.