NORTH Melbourne coach Brad Scott says shutting down Carlton star Patrick Cripps early was key to his side’s domination in the contest as the Roos romped to a 58-point win over the Blues on Sunday.

Scott’s side dominated contested possessions 157-122 – including 50-28 in the first quarter alone – leaving the Blues on the backfoot from the onset.

ROOS CRUISE AGAINST BLUES Full match coverage and stats

Cripps is renowned as one of the best inside midfielders in the League, and Scott gave Jack Ziebell the unenviable task of shutting down the Carlton co-captain.

"We really were conscious that Patrick Cripps I think is the dominant midfielder in the competition at the moment and so it was a huge challenge for Jack Ziebell in particular," Scott said.

"We set him that task, in combination with our other mids (and) that really went well for us early.

"Just from my observations it looked like they had to try and adjust around that … so nullifying Cripps obviously helps in the contest." 

Scott said his side was much better in the contest generally on Sunday, after losing the contested possession count 165-141 last weekend against Port Adelaide.

"It wasn’t just one match-up, we were much better today at getting across to the contest to help," Scott said. 

"That enabled us to move the ball a bit better and most of our game looked better." 

The North coach lauded the forward pressure from Cameron Zurhaar – who starred with five goals – Taylor Garner and Kayne Turner, who proved a headache for Carlton’s defence.

He also singled out key forward Ben Brown for praise, after he kicked four goals.

"(Brown) was fantastic with his goals and his marks and movement, but he also pressured really well, which isn’t the hallmark of his game but he really brought into what we tried to achieve today," Scott said.

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The win moves North Melbourne to a record of 2-5, and Scott said backing up the impressive performance next Sunday against Geelong was vital, as the Roos try and keep their slim finals chances alive. 

He said playing consistent football was key to this. 

WATCH Brad Scott's full post-match media conference

"It’s reinforcing the things we did well today, but also trying to show what happens if you don’t do those things well," Scott said.

"Because it’s a huge swing. That’s why the season’s doing what it’s doing in terms of the results … the swing can be massive if little things aren’t at the level they need to be. 

"So my overriding message is that we’re pleased, but we’re far from satisfied." 

Scott said defender Scott Thompson had a sore adductor and was in doubt for next week.