Swans claim AFLW an 'even comp' despite North dominance

Sydney coach Colin O'Riordan has dismissed talk of a lopsided AFLW competition, believing the ladder can do teams a disservice against all-conquering North Melbourne.

The Kangaroos' undefeated streak is now 32 games, having started their premiership defence with three victories to sit atop the ladder.

Sydney have also maintained a perfect start under new coach O'Riordan, sitting fourth behind third-placed Carlton and next-best Melbourne.

But the Kangaroos are the clear frontrunners on the ladder, boasting a percentage of 257.8 in comparison to Sydney's 150.

North Melbourne's ruthless start has prompted punters and critics to predict a fourth consecutive grand final appearance, perceiving Melbourne as the only true threat.

Meanwhile, there are still four teams yet to register a win - West Coast, Essendon, Collingwood and last-placed St Kilda.

But O'Riordan says it's too early to call the competition, adding he's far from concerned the chasm between the best and the worst is becoming more pronounced.

There has been some shift in the league's top order, with long-time heavyweights Brisbane and Adelaide managing just one win each to sit outside the top eight.

"The games that the bottom four have been in, they've been really tight," O'Riordan said.

"Sometimes the ladder can do a disservice to what the actual game looks like.

"It'll be interesting to see how it goes in the next three weeks and when it starts to take shape.

"At the minute, it's actually been really even competition for a large extent."

O'Riordan pointed to last week's clash between the Western Bulldogs and the Kangaroos, despite a 47-point win to the reigning premiers.

An injury-hit Sydney are set to travel to Whitten Oval after a 23-point triumph over the Saints.