North Melbourne is looking forward to the challenge of climbing back inside the AFL’s top eight after a well-earned break this weekend, according to vice-captain Jack Ziebell.

Following a preliminary final appearance last season, the Kangaroos’ season hasn’t been as expected with injuries hindering their 2015 campaign.

Sitting 11th on the ladder but only outside of the top eight on percentage, the Kangaroos have lost a spate of key players to long-term injuries in the first 12 rounds. Leigh Adams, Nathan Grima, Daniel Wells remain on the sidelines while Nick Dal Santo returned from a serious hamstring tear last weekend.

The Kangaroos have also been without their coach Brad Scott for a couple of weeks due to back surgery and won’t regain him until their Round 15 clash with the Cats.

Speaking to aflplayers.com.au, Ziebell said North needs to improve if they’re to back up a promising 2014.

“We’re 6-6 and probably liked to have won a few more games than that but it is what it is and we’ve got a few areas where we need to improve. It’s going to be a big second half of the year,” Ziebell said.

After a difficult draw in the first half of the year, North will have a break this weekend before taking on Gold Coast, Geelong, Essendon, and Brisbane in the next four rounds.

They play only two current top-eight sides in their next 10 games, facing Fremantle at home in Round 21 and Richmond in Round 23.