North Melbourne Kangaroos Top 10 Greatest Games in Club History

The North Melbourne Football Club, known as the Kangaroos, has a proud and storied legacy in Australian Rules Football. Established in 1869 and rising to prominence in the VFL/AFL, the Kangaroos have been part of many unforgettable moments and matches that showcased their resilience, skill, and fighting spirit. From iconic grand finals to legendary comebacks, North Melbourne has delivered some of the best performances in AFL history.

Here are some of the Kangaroos’ most memorable games of all time.

1. 1975 Grand Final – North’s First VFL Premiership

The 1975 Grand Final holds a special place in North Melbourne’s history. Facing Hawthorn at the MCG, the Kangaroos secured their first-ever premiership after decades of heartbreak. Led by coaching legend Ron Barassi, North dominated the second half, kicking 12 goals to 3 to claim a 55-point victory (19.8.122 to 9.13.67). Players like Barry Cable, Malcolm Blight, and Doug Wade starred in a performance that finally delivered glory to North Melbourne and established them as a force in the competition.

2. 1996 Grand Final – Celebrating a Centenary in Style

In the AFL’s centenary year, North Melbourne capped off an incredible season with a premiership win over the Sydney Swans. Led by captain Wayne Carey and coach Denis Pagan, the Kangaroos controlled the match from start to finish, claiming a 43-point victory (19.17.131 to 13.10.88). Carey, often dubbed “The King,” played a pivotal role, while Corey McKernan and Glenn Archer delivered standout performances. This triumph solidified North’s dominance in the 1990s and remains one of their proudest moments.

3. 1999 Grand Final – A Second Premiership in the ’90s

The 1999 Grand Final saw North Melbourne take on Carlton in front of a packed MCG. The Kangaroos, under the guidance of Denis Pagan, controlled the match early and ran out 35-point winners (19.10.124 to 12.17.89). Shannon Grant was outstanding, earning the Norm Smith Medal for his match-winning performance, while Glenn Archer and Anthony Stevens reinforced North’s tough and courageous reputation. This win marked the club’s fourth premiership and highlighted their dominance during the decade.

4. 1994 Preliminary Final – Blight’s Miracle Goal

One of the most thrilling finishes in AFL history came in the 1994 Preliminary Final between North Melbourne and Geelong. With seconds remaining and the Kangaroos trailing, Malcolm Blight launched a remarkable torpedo punt from well beyond 50 meters that sailed through for a goal. Although North narrowly lost the game, Blight’s goal remains an iconic moment, showcasing the club’s fighting spirit and never-say-die attitude.

5. 2007 Comeback Against Essendon – A Roaring Victory

In Round 16 of the 2007 season, North Melbourne produced one of their most memorable comebacks against the Essendon Bombers. Trailing by 27 points at halftime, the Kangaroos launched a second-half blitz, kicking 11 goals to 2. Brent Harvey led the charge with a dominant display, inspiring his team to an unforgettable 22-point win. This game perfectly encapsulated North Melbourne’s ability to rise when the odds were against them.

6. 2014 Elimination Final – Stunning Comeback Against Essendon

Another classic clash with Essendon came in the 2014 Elimination Final. The Kangaroos looked dead and buried after falling behind by 33 points early in the third quarter. However, inspired by the brilliance of Drew Petrie and Brent Harvey, North staged a phenomenal comeback, kicking 12 of the last 14 goals to seal a thrilling 12-point victory (14.14.98 to 12.14.86). The match remains one of the great finals performances in North Melbourne’s recent history.

7. 1985 Semi-Final – A High-Scoring Thriller

The 1985 Semi-Final between North Melbourne and Sydney was a breathtaking contest that showcased the attacking flair of both teams. North eventually triumphed in a high-scoring affair, winning 25.15.165 to 21.15.141. The match was notable for the incredible individual performances, with players like John Longmire and Wayne Schimmelbusch dominating in a goal-fest that remains etched in AFL history.

8. 2012 Round 16 – Shootout Win Over Richmond

In a match that turned into an epic shootout, North Melbourne edged out Richmond in Round 16 of the 2012 season. The Kangaroos kicked an astonishing 22 goals to Richmond’s 18, eventually securing a 36-point victory. Drew Petrie starred with 7 goals, while North’s midfield, led by Daniel Wells and Andrew Swallow, dismantled the Tigers’ defense. This match showcased North Melbourne’s potent attacking prowess.

9. 1977 Grand Final Replay – Premiership Glory After a Draw

The 1977 Grand Final against Collingwood remains one of the most iconic moments in VFL/AFL history. After a dramatic draw in the first encounter, North Melbourne returned the following week with renewed determination, delivering a commanding performance to claim the premiership. Led by stars like Arnold Briedis, who kicked 5 goals, and Ron Barassi as coach, the Kangaroos triumphed 21.25.151 to 19.10.124, cementing their place as one of the league’s powerhouses of the era.

10. 1998 Preliminary Final – A Dominant Display Against Melbourne

North Melbourne’s 1998 Preliminary Final victory over Melbourne was a masterclass in finals football. The Kangaroos dominated from start to finish, winning by a massive 66 points (22.9.141 to 10.15.75). Wayne Carey was unstoppable, kicking 4 goals and leading his team with trademark brilliance. The win propelled North Melbourne to their third Grand Final in the ’90s, reinforcing their dominance during this golden era.

From grand finals to miraculous comebacks, North Melbourne has carved out an incredible history filled with legendary performances. Each game reflects the club’s passion, resilience, and ability to thrive under pressure, ensuring their place as one of the AFL’s most iconic team