An unconvincing 28-point win over bottom-placed Melbourne at the MCG was enough to lift North Melbourne to fifth spot on the AFL ladder.

The Kangaroos outscored the Demons 7.3 to 1.3 in the opening term, but were far from impressive after that, eventually winning 14.14 (98) to 10.10 (70).

The Demons trailed by 38 points at half-time, after a first half in which they made regular skill errors and poor decisions.

But they lifted in the third term, outscoring the 'Roos 3.4 to 2.3, then scored three of the first four goals of the final quarter.

That cut the margin to 19 points eight minutes into the term and gave them a shot at a major upset, but they were unable to pull it off.

The Demons were still within 22 points 19 minutes into the quarter, before youngster Simon Buckley attempted to play on from a kick-out, but was dragged down by David Hale, setting up Lindsay Thomas to kick the sealer.

It was Thomas' fifth goal, in what was a fine performance from the small forward, and proved to be the last major of the match.

The victory was a crucial one for the Kangaroos, who would have dropped out of the top eight with a loss.

It gave them three straight wins for the first time this season, but was not nearly as impressive as last week's victory over Collingwood.

Classy midfielder Brent Harvey continued the form that has him high on the list of Brownlow favourites, with a 27-disposal, two-goal game, his first half particularly good

Captain Adam Simpson was a steady, four-quarter performer for the winners.

Versatile forward Corey Jones returned to form with four goals, including a burst of three goals in six minutes to help establish his side's advantage in the first term.

For the Demons, big man Paul Johnson put in a strong performance, both in stints in the ruck and up forward, with his foot skills a highlight.

Buckley was also good for the Demons, with a hard-working running game through the midfield.

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