Kangaroos Take Heart From Pushing High-Flying Swans

AFL ladder leaders Sydney have held off North Melbourne in an entertaining contest under the Marvel Stadium roof, with a Swans trio kicking three goals.

Tom Papley of the Swans celebrates scoring a goal during the AFL Round 9 match between the North Melbourne Kangaroos and the Sydney Swans at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne, on May 9, 2026. AAP Image/Joel Carrett

Alastair Clarkson expects North Melbourne will only grow through further exposure to big moments against the AFL’s best sides after a narrow loss to ladder leaders Sydney.

The Kangaroos dominated territory (67-51) and generated more shots than the Swans but were on the wrong end of a 16.9 (105) to 14.13 (97) scoreline at Marvel Stadium on May 9.