North Melbourne coach Alastair Clarkson has defended the rebuild he is leading at the Kangaroos after their narrow 9-point loss to St Kilda.
The margin was three points late in the last quarter, but a goal after the final siren saw the Saints win (11.12) 78 to (10.9) 69.
Colby McKercher starred for the Kangaroos as he gathered 36 disposals and kicked a goal, while Saints superstar Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera continued his fantastic form, also collecting 36 disposals.
Alastair Clarkson explained he was pleased that his team competed for the game, but needed more inside 50s if they want to win more matches.
MORE: GWS coach ‘not overly concerned’ after Giants 88-point loss
“Won two quarters, lost two quarters. So that was pleasing that we’re able to compete and be in the game in that respect.” Clarkson said in his post-match press conference.
“Our endeavour was really strong, and the bottom line is we just couldn’t get it inside 50 enough. Single margin figure that splits the two sides by the end of the game, but that's a double-figured margin between inside 50 differential.”
Clarkson also defended the rebuild at the club, taking a shot at pundits who have criticised his coaching at the club
"It's a tough caper, but we've known all along to take sides from the bottom of the ladder to the top is really, really hard work, but there just seems to be a lot of people who think they can do it better and they've never even tried it."
The Kangaroos are currently in 17th spot with four wins, 15 losses and a draw this year and will play eighth-place GWS Giants away next week.