A powerhouse performance from North Melbourne posted a dominant 42-point win against reigning premier Adelaide at North Hobart Oval on Saturday afternoon.

Rain set in during the second quarter but it didn't seem to affect North. The Roos went into the main break ahead by 28.

The Kangaroos created opportunities in a variety of ways, whether it was getting over the top of the Crows' defence, taking advantage of half-chances or by dominating in the air.

It all proved too much for Adelaide, which was without its superstar Erin Phillips (general soreness), and North Melbourne ran away with a 9.9 (63) to 3.3 (21) victory.

The Crows have been a different outfit to the one that won last year's flag, missing several key personnel, including gun defender Chelsea Randall (knee). Her absence was especially felt as North Melbourne scored 12 times from 14 inside-50 entries in the first half.

Adelaide was competitive early, led by tough nut Ebony Marinoff and ball magnet Anne Hatchard exerting their influence through the middle of the ground.

The clear talent disparity eventually shone through though.

Emma Kearney and Jasmine Garner starred in the midfield and the latter was dangerous when she pushed forward, finishing with two goals to go alongside her 24 disposals.

Also in attack for the Roos, Kaitlyn Ashmore was an ever-present threat (four goals) and Sophie Abbatangelo made the most of her opportunities to finish with two.

NORTH MELBOURNE      2.2          5.5          7.8          9.9 (63)

ADELAIDE                       1.1          1.1          1.2          3.3 (21)

GOALS

North Melbourne: Ashmore 4, Abbatangelo 2, Garner 2, King
Adelaide: Thompson 2, Ponter

BEST 

North Melbourne: Ashmore, Garner, Kearney, Abbatangelo, Bruton, Wright
Adelaide: Hatchard, Marinoff, Foley, Rajcic

INJURIES 

North Melbourne: Nil
Adelaide: Nil

LATE CHANGES

North Melbourne: Nil
Adelaide: Najwa Allen (calf) repaced in the selected side by Chelsea Biddell

Reports: Nil

Crowd: 2843 at North Hobart Oval