After five successive losses, the Kangaroos overcame a gallant Gold Coast Suns opponent to secure a 13-point win at Etihad Stadium.

North Melbourne held on for a 16.11 (107) to 14.10 (94) win in the round six AFL contest.

The Suns fell short, despite the inspirational effort of captain Gary Ablett.

Ablett finished the game with a whopping 45 disposals, a career-high 18 clearances and a goal.

In a fast-paced contest, both sides started well with the Suns holding a one-goal lead at the first break.

North Melbourne fought back to lead by two points at half time and extended that advantage to seven points at three-quarter time.

The last quarter was a see-sawing battle, with the Kangaroos booting four goals to three to round out victory.

North Melbourne was led to victory by forward Ben Brown, who finished with a career-high six goals on Saturday night.

Team mate Nathan Hrovat also booted two goals.

For the Suns, Tom Lynch kicked three majors while Peter Wright, Brandon Matera, Michael Barlow and Callum Ah Chee booted two goals apiece.