Goodes celebrates the opening goal of the match
The Sydney Swans had the dream start when a 50m penalty gifted dual Brownlow medallist Adam Goodes the first goal of the game. He slotted his set-shot with precision to the delight of teammates.
McDonald mobbed by teammates
Just 10 minutes before the game North Melbourne emergency Luke McDonald had no idea he would be playing. However, the second-year defender made his late inclusion count to boot his first AFL goal in the opening term.
Heeney delivers
Isaac Heeney built quite the reputation in his first season at AFL level. So when he executed the banana kick to perfection early in the second quarter not many people were surprised.
Cunnington sets the tone
North Melbourne had the early ascendancy and took a 16-point lead into half-time. Ben Cunnington's aggressive mindset was typical of his side in what was a best afield display.
Battered and bruised
Dan Hannebery and his Sydney Swans midfield cohorts found the going tough on Saturday night. Shadowed by North tagger Ben Jacobs, the AFL Coaches Association Player of the Year had 20 disposals but little impact on the contest.
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Turner refuses to take a backward step
Despite weighing 67kg, North youngster Kayne Turner threw himself into everything. He wasn't afraid to get in a couple of scraps before being subbed out in the final term.
Ageing like a fine wine
They say age is just a number and it could not be any more apt for Roos champion Brent Harvey. The veteran's zip and game-breaking ability, in his 408th match, was crucial in North Melbourne's win.
Tippett does his bit
The Sydney Swans may have gone down to a more polished North Melbourne outfit but it wasn't through any fault of Kurt Tippett. The Swans' spearhead booted two goals and took 10 marks to be one of his side's best.
Rohan comes off second best
A heavy collision between Gary Rohan and Drew Petrie left the Sydney Swan worse for wear. Both players did not take their eyes off the ball.
Great Scott
North Melbourne coach Brad Scott steered his side into a preliminary final for the second year in a row. No wonder he was beaming so brightly.
Atley seals the deal
With six minutes left on the clock, Shaun Atley's running goal on his non-preferred foot gave the Roos an unassailable lead. It was celebrated accordingly.
Shaw chaired off
After 16 years in the AFL, premiership Swan Rhyce Shaw's final game did not go to plan. However, he received the send-off he deserved as he was chaired from ANZ Stadium.
Winners are grinners
North players celebrate in fine style in the winning rooms. Lindsay Thomas (pictured centre) played an important cameo as he kicked a crucial late goal to see his side over the line.
The last goodbye (picture: Getty Images)
After 372 games, two premiership victories, two Brownlow Medal wins, three club best and fairests and four All Australian selections, Swans champion Adam Goodes announced his retirement after his side's 26-point loss to North Melbourne.
