North Melbourne are off to the best start in their storied history, thumping Carlton by 67 points at Etihad Stadium to extend their unbeaten run to nine AFL games.
The Blues started brightly enough but couldn't stay with the Roos as they bounded away to record a clinical 17.11 (113) to 6.10 (46) win in front of 38,419 fans that sent them two games clear on top of the ladder.
Brendon Bolton's men have won plenty of admirers over the past month as they strung four wins together, but the difference in class between the sides became more apparent as the game wore on.
A week after Brad Scott lashed his players for a late fade out against Essendon, the Kangaroos led by 19 points at the first break and extended their lead at every change.
Matched up against ex-Suns ruckman Daniel Gorringe, in his first game for Carlton, Todd Goldstein had a night to remember with 19 possessions, 45 hitouts and three goals.
He wasn't the only Kangaroo to enjoy a big night under the roof at Etihad. Nick Dal Santo, Jack Ziebell and Brent Harvey were important around the ball, while Robbie Tarrant continued his fine run of form down back.
North came out in front in most statistical categories, perhaps the most telling the contested possession count they won 138-117.
For the Blues, Sam Docherty put in another strong performance with a game-high 28 touches, with Bryce Gibbs, Sam Kerridge ad Patrick Cripps also prominent.
"It was no secret that they'd won eight straight (games) coming in, they're a very well-oiled machine, and the midfield was where it was won and lost," Bolton said after his side slipped to a 4-5 win-loss record.
"I think they kicked half a dozen goals from centre bounces and got on top through that midfield."
Scott said the historic start to the season, while good for Kangaroos fans, wasn't a consideration for his side as they continue to build a platform for their premiership tilt.
The coach was, however, delighted with the way his players stuck to the task against the Blues.
"I think it was a complete performance," Scott said.
"It was pretty dominant across the board. We got a good lesson last week (against the Bombers) and a good wake-up call that if you're a little bit off anyone can come at you.
"So the boys really knuckled down tonight and did a really good job."
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