Tarryn Thomas impresses Rhyce Shaw in win

Narrowly missing out on being named in North's best players, the 20-year-old, who has drawn comparisons to Daniel Wells, collected six disposals and kicked two crucial goals in the win over Greater Western Sydney.

Taking advantage of a shoddy out-of-bounds kick-in from Giants second-gamer Isaac Cumming, Thomas delivered a classy, effortless checkside goal to put his side ahead in the third quarter.

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His second goal, a simple finish following impressive work from Jared Polec and Jasper Pittard, helped create some space from their opponents before running out 20-point winners in one of the upsets of the round.

One of several North young guns alongside Cameron Zurhaar, Curtis Taylor, Jy Simpkin and Kyron Hayden to step up to the plate in the season-resuming win, Thomas' efforts drew praise from coach Rhyce Shaw.

"Our young brigade is certainly playing their part in these victories," Shaw said.

"I think they've got a lot of guys that they can learn off.

"We are very fortunate to have Ben Cunnington, Shaun Higgins, Todd Goldstein, Aaron Hall, these guys that have around a long time, Jed Anderson, who really compliment our younger guys and lead the way really well both at training and in games.

"We've got a really good balance at the moment, hopefully they can grow together and start taking over, those young boys."

Thomas wasn't the only Tasmanian to impress in footy's return as Collingwood's Jeremy Howe was named the Magpies' best player for his 20-disposal, seven-mark performance in their draw against Richmond.

Brisbane's Mitch Robinson and Gold Coast's Lachie Weller both were named in their respective sides' best players also as the two Queensland-based teams picked up victories on Saturday.

Outside of the AFL, Toby Nankervis staked his claim for a recall in Richmond's scratch match.

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