An inaccurate North Melbourne has hung on to beat a previously undefeated Fremantle by 10 points at North Hobart Oval.

Fremantle was playing its fourth game in 16 days, and it was a dour struggle between the two sides, but the Roos were too good in the end, winning 3.8 (26) to 2.4 (16).

The Roos dominated both the second and third quarters with their high-pressure game but could not buy a goal, with Bella Eddey's classy conversion on the run late in the third finally ending an agonising run of eight consecutive behinds.

Ebony Antonio had just one touch to the main break, but like she has done on multiple occasions this year, dragged Fremantle back into the match with a snapped goal to cut North Melbourne's lead to six at three-quarter time.

Without suspended superstar Kiara Bowers, key forward Gemma Houghton spent time in the middle, while defender Jess Low played a tagging role on the AFLW's leading ball-winner Ash Riddell, consequently sending Tiah Toth to defence.

It was a tense last quarter played primarily at Fremantle's end, with North Melbourne's defence hanging on for dear life, until Tahlia Randall capitalised on a rare forward foray with a strong contested mark and goal and put the result beyond doubt.

Jasmine Garner (28 disposals) signalled a return to top form, Riddell (24 and eight tackles) broke free of her tag and rucks Kim Rennie and Emma King combined beautifully against a gallant Mim Strom.

Freo skipper Hayley Miller (20, nine tackles and six clearances) had a well-rounded game, Gabby O'Sullivan laid 11 tackles and Steph Cain was strong on the wing.

NORTH MELBOURNE     1.1     1.5     2.8     3.8     (26)
FREMANTLE     1.1     1.2     2.2     2.4     (16) 

GOALS
North Melbourne: Abbatangelo, Eddey, Randall
Fremantle: Houghton, E. Antonio

BEST 
North Melbourne: Garner, Riddell, Kearney, Bruton, M. King
Fremantle: Miller, O'Sullivan, Cain, K. Antonio, E. Antonio

INJURIES 
North Melbourne: Nil
Fremantle: Nil

Reports: Nil 

Crowd: TBC at North Hobart Oval