While the ladder has Brad Scott's team in tenth place, an in-depth look at some key statistical areas shows the Kangaroos are more than competitive.

Despite being one of the youngest side's in the AFL, North ranks third in inside 50's, fifth in clearances, fifth for one-percenters and fifth for contested possessions; its all positive data that should point to a more favorable win-loss record. Unfortunately wasted opportunities in front of goal, poor delivery to the forward line attack and an inability to stop the opposition's key playmakers has proven costly.

There's no doubt North has the talent to match the Blues with Daniel Wells, Jack Ziebell and Andrew Swallow playing consistent football and Drew Petrie up and about, but will it display the skill execution and discipline needed on the biggest stage on Friday night?

For Carlton Eddie Betts was the goalkicking hero, Andrew Walker the high flyer, but it was in the middle that the Blues dominated most against Essendon.

Not much needs to be said about Chris Judd's influence, but it's those around him that are making the difference. The emergence of Marc Murphy, Bryce Gibbs and Mitch Robinson is what has Carlton fans most excited.

A third-round selection in the 2008 National Draft, Robinson is the type of player any coach would love to have in their side while Murphy's game is quite the opposite. Blessed with exceptional ball-winning talent both in the contested situation and on the run, he leads the competition for average disposals and has even kicked 19 goals.

Gibbs' ability to play in a key defensive post and in the middle makes him a tough proposition and he sits in the top 20 for disposals, but is also the number one mark-taker in the game.

When you add the ever-reliable Kade Simpson it's easy to see why Carlton is second for clearances while conceding the least, and is fourth for disposals in the competition.

Any doubts over the Blues' midfield depth must now be eliminated - especially with Brock McLean still waiting in the wings, and Andrew Carrazzo close to a return from a calf injury.

Friday night's game will most likely be decided in this area, and while the North Melbourne brigade is young and inexperienced, you could make the same argument for the Blues.

Murphy, Gibbs and Robinson are all under 25, while on the other side of the ledger Ryan Bastinac, Andrew Swallow, Jack Ziebell and Levi Greenwood are the future at Aegis Park.