SUMMARY
NORTH Melbourne is searching for answers following its surprising 55-point loss to a Gary Ablett-inspired Gold Coast. Coach Brad Scott will resume match-day responsibilities when his side takes on Geelong but the Cats will almost certainly have a handy addition of their own, with midfielder Jimmy Bartel expected to play after his impressive return via the VFL. The Kangaroos failed to stop Ablett in his comeback last round and face a similar dilemma should Bartel take the field. With the cancellation of the Adelaide-Geelong clash and a bye the previous round, Saturday night will mark the Cats' first match in 20 days.

WHERE AND WHEN: Etihad Stadium, Saturday July 11, 7.20pm AEST

TV AND RADIO: Click here for broadcast guide

LAST FIVE TIMES
R4, 2015, North Melbourne 12.11 (83) d Geelong 9.13 (67) at Simonds Stadium
2SF, 2014, North Melbourne 14.14 (98) d Geelong 13.14 (92) at the MCG
R19, 2014, Geelong 16.15 (111) d North Melbourne 10.19 (79) at Etihad Stadium
R10, 2014, Geelong 16.15 (111) d North Melbourne 13.13 (91) at Simonds Stadium
R19, 2013, North Melbourne 15.6 (96) d Geelong 13.8 (86) at Etihad Stadium 

THE SIX POINTS
1. North's lesser-known players were the difference in round four. Sam Wright starred with 32 possessions, Robbie Tarrant had 23 touches and Robin Nahas kicked three goals.
2. The Kangaroos have won the past two clashes between the sides after the Cats had won three of their previous four meetings.
3. Nothing separates the sides at Etihad Stadium with five wins each. Geelong has won their last six and 14 of their last 15 games at the venue.
4. Both teams have been strong in centre clearances in 2015. North is equal third with 13.2 per game, while Geelong is equal fifth with 12.5.
5. Geelong is the No.1 contested marking side this season, averaging 11.7 per game. North Melbourne is ranked equal 13th with 9.8.
6. Ben Cunnington is the sixth-highest points scorer over the last four rounds (56.8) in the Official AFL Player Ratings. He is No.73 overall – the fourth-highest Roo.

IT'S A BIG WEEK FOR … Jimmy Bartel
The Cats will be buoyed by the likely return of the 31-year-old, who hasn't played since injuring his left knee in round three. Bartel got through his comeback game in the VFL last Saturday with flying colours, finishing with 28 touches. The Brownlow medallist will have to pass the Cats' main training session before being declared fit to play.

PREDICTION: North Melbourne by seven points.