Favourites? You sure!? Even Roos shocked by first round odds

North Melbourne co-captain Luke McDonald admits he was shocked to learn his team has been installed as favourites for their round one clash against West Coast, stressing the Eagles of 2023 will be vastly different to the version that vied with the Kangaroos for last year’s wooden spoon.

The Eagles and Kangaroos combined for only four wins last season, with North Melbourne beating a COVID-ravaged West Coast team that included top-ups from the WAFL by 15 points in round two. The Roos didn’t win another match until round 18.