1. North’s nightmare continues
Given their record in recent close encounters – first a one-point loss to the Cats in round two before last week’s two-point defeat to the Bulldogs – it was always going to be interesting to see how the Kangaroos would respond on the road against a resurgent Fremantle team. The Dockers threatened to put the foot down in the first term with clinical ball movement and attacking run from defence, but Brad Scott’s men held firm and levelled the game at quarter-time. The game was on the Kangaroos' terms thereafter until the final term when Fremantle sent shockwaves through Victoria, reducing the deficit to just one point. And when Shane Kersten converted a snap in the final minute, Kangaroos’ fans worst nightmares were realised. The Roos sink to 0-5 with finals a distant chance, while Fremantle’s September hopes remain well and truly alive.

WATCH: The last two minutes

2. Freo’s incredible turnaround
After round two Ross Lyon was passed his use-by date, Fremantle’s game style was stagnant and its list devoid of depth and promise. Now, following a resurgence few could’ve predicted, the Dockers are remarkably back in the reckoning for an unlikely finals berth. Fremantle’s next three home games – against Essendon, Carlton and Collingwood – are winnable, as is next Saturday’s Western Derby given the relative unpredictability of the 44 before it. With a bit of luck, Lyon’s rebuild may yield dividends sooner than first thought.

Full match coverage and stats 

3. Has Garner already won mark of the year?
You’ll see a bit of Taylor Garner this season, whether he’s playing or not. With the ball sailing towards North Melbourne’s attacking arc midway through the second quarter, Garner launched himself on top of Fremantle defender Garrick Ibbotson and teammate Kayne Turner, poised himself for what seemed like an eternity and pulled in with one grab what is surely the leading contender to date for this year’s mark of the year. It will take a fair effort to rob Garner of the award when it is announced. 

4. Blakely plays blanket again
After limiting the impact of Demons co-captain Nathan Jones in round four, Connor Blakely set about blanketing Jack Ziebell and did so with great effect. The Roos’ skipper was largely ineffective at stoppages and lost Blakely’s tag only after he suffered a knock to his right knee from Ibbotson midway through the second term. Blakely was released of his defensive role in the second half to give his side more impetus at clearances, but again proved his worth in a new role.

5. A crucial reversal … almost.
Michael Walters had an opportunity to capitalise on his team’s first quarter dominance and put North Melbourne two goals in arrears with a set shot from 45m. Instead he saw the ball handed to his opponent after an incident off the ball involving former skipper David Mundy. North Melbourne rebounded the ball through the corridor and set up returning forward Mason Wood for a set shot in the corresponding position at the other end of the field. Wood converted and the Dockers’ momentum was halted in what could’ve proven to be a match-defining moment.