North has performed strongly during the Roar’s lengthy pre-season and the experienced defender believes Round One couldn’t have come at a better time.

“We’ve had a long pre-season to gel as a team and we couldn’t be more ready,” he said.

“Melbourne Victory in the first game of the new season is going to be tough battle, but all the boys are ready to go.”

Roar and Victory have played some epic encounters including the 2015/16 elimination final Stadium.

Both clubs have added depth and talent to their rosters over the off-season and North is expecting a strong challenge on Friday night.

“The Victory are a good football team, they’re going to be a different outfit without [Asian] Champions League football this season,” North said.

“We have really good depth in our squad with talented young players to complement our important experienced leaders.

“It’s a great mix and we’re going to be really well prepared again this season and hopefully we can go one step further than last season.”