Kangaroos’ upset win puts finals on agenda

NORTH Melbourne’s AFL season is alive after a shock 40point win against West Coast but coach Brad Scott wants to keep a lid on finals talk.

The Kangaroos stayed in touch with the top eight after a dominant second half secured a 12.9 (81) to 6.5 (41) victory on in Hobart. yesterday.

Scott revealed the catalyst was some home truths following a disappointing loss to Collingwood last week. “We certainly asked for a response today and we got it,” he said.

North Melbourne are now four points outside the eight, with their remaining four games against teams below them on the ladder.

“We were aware of the importance in terms of ladder position,” Scott said of the upset at Bellerive Oval.

“The true test for professionals in any sport is being able to focus on what’s in front of you. Being able to follow a system and process to achieve the outcome.”

The Kangaroos doubled West Coast’s inside-50s – 38 to 16 – during a scrappy first half but were only ahead 34-31 at halftime.

They pulled away in the allimportant third quarter, though, booting four straight goals to lead 61-38 heading into the final term.

West Coast, who were without Josh Kennedy and Luke Shuey, scored just one secondhalf goal, booted by Elliot Yeo early in the third quarter.