North Melbourne coach David Noble laments gap between AFL and VFL after Carlton belting

Carlton handed North Melbourne a 50-point loss on Saturday, leading Kangaroos coach David Noble to voice concerns about an issue within the game.

Noble is in his second season coaching North Melbourne. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

North Melbourne coach David Noble is becoming increasingly concerned about the difference between VFL and AFL standard as his side suffered a 50-point loss to Carlton on Saturday night.

The Roos were in the contest right up to their eyeballs in the first half, but the class of Carlton shone through in the third term with the Blues booting seven goals to two.

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“The step between the VFL and the AFL now has grown, it has grown significantly,” said Noble.

“It is a bit (of a concern), the problem is, particularly for those younger guys, to get the games into them to make sure they are absolutely ready to go.

“An example, Paul Curtis was better again tonight because he had the tempo and understanding from last week, which we know you don’t get until you expose those guys.

“We talk about playing at AFL speed, sometimes that’s quite hard to do at VFL level.

“The ball is not as reliable, doesn’t get delivered as well, the system is a bit slower, the execution is a little bit more off.

“Trying to get our guys to play with a bit more intensity and urgency at a VFL level is tricky.”

The Roos sit 17th on the ladder. (Photo by Daniel Pockett/Getty Images)

The growing difference in standards between the VFL and AFL could be due to the Covid-19 pandemic; many young players have played less than ten competitive matches throughout the pandemic and missed out on crucial developmental time.

“It is what it is, we just have to make it work,” Noble said.

North Melbourne faces a daunting task next weekend: an away trip to Perth to face the red-hot Fremantle Dockers.

But Noble is optimistic about his side’s performances and endeavour.

“We are going to continue to fight out games,” he said.

“Our group embraces taking on the best because you learn, you can move forward quickly, and you can grow.

“We know exactly where we are at. We know the things we are chasing to improve.”

Originally published as North Melbourne coach David Noble laments gap between AFL and VFL after Carlton belting