North Melbourne know they can win the battle, they just can't nail the execution.

How they use the ball will again be crucial for the Kangaroos in Saturday's AFL clash against Sydney at Etihad Stadium.

They were ahead of Brisbane at the clearances last weekend, but poor disposal cost North as the Lions posted their first win of the season.

That left the 'Roos languishing in 14th spot with only two wins heading into the round-10 battle against the Swans.

Sydney have won their last four matches against North Melbourne, including two convincing victories last season.

Veteran North defender Brady Rawlings said they are confident they can play Sydney at their own well-known game, of keeping the ball in tight and constantly creating stoppages.

That will make the Kangaroos' use of the ball even more critical.

"(Coach) Brad Scott will only play guys who put in that effort, he's a pretty hard man himself," Rawlings said.

"Probably our skill execution has let us down at times, there have been times we've probably gone away from what we want to do in terms of game plans.

"The Swannies, they're such a tough team, you just need to be all over the game plan and really execute what you're trying to do."

Rawlings said the Swans had shown North the need to never let up during each match.

North led at halftime last Saturday night, but Brisbane finished off the game much stronger.

"They've been able to grind us down, we've been able to keep with them for a couple of quarters here and there," Rawlings said of Sydney.

"Then it's their consistency, to just put you away has probably been the difference.

"We might have a 10-15 minute lapse where we drop off and they've really capitalised."

Levi Greenwood's return to the team from injury will be timely, given he is the sort of tough-nut player that North will need against Sydney at the stoppages.

Liam Anthony is also back, while the Swans recalled Mark Seaby and promoted Lewis Johnston for his AFL debut.

Seaby will come in for in-form ruckman Shane Mumford, whose knee injury is a blow for Sydney.

North ruckman Todd Goldstein is in strong form and this is an area where the Kangaroos could gain a big advantage.

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