The 100+ cap centre also wants Wales to be more clinical when they create chances. They scored two tries in the 55-23 Round 1 defeat to the All Blacks.
“It was a mixed bag, really. The scoreline has its own story, but when you were in it, we felt like we were going toe to toe,” said North.
“We fronted up on a number of occasions, but obviously let in some easy tries in. You can’t do that at this level because New Zealand are a great outfit
“We had a slow start and then showed great fight to come back into it. We just didn’t get back on top.
“You’ve got to be on the money from minute one against sides like New Zealand, and against every side in the Autumn Series. Any opportunity these sides get they are going to take, and we can’t afford to allow them to gather momentum.
“We created opportunities, but we need to be a bit more clinical. We also have to look at our exits, in terms of getting out of our 22 to take the pressure off us, rather than compound those issues.
“I’m sure there will be a few more issues to look at this week. The autumn series brings four big Tests back-to-back.
“We are into it now and the games will come thick and fast. We’ve got three games to make it right, then a short time away before we come back together for the Six Nations
“This is certainly the first step towards the World Cup in France next year. Every time you are on the field at Test level, you have got to take your minutes, your opportunities and really put in a performance.”
North may have started his Wales career as a wing, but he is loving teaming up with Nick Tompkins in the Welsh midfield. He may still be used on the wing for the Ospreys, but he is happy wearing the No 13 jersey for Wales.
“I guess I’m a cocktail. I enjoyed playing No 13 against New Zealand and I’m really excited at exploring that going forward,” he added.
“Nick and I have had a partnership in a few Tests now. It’s just about finding some consistency. “
It was Tompkins who created the pathway for Rio Dyer to crown his debut international with Wales’ first try against the All Blacks. North knows all about scoring tries, having touched down 43 times in his 106-cap career for Wales.
“It was a brilliant try, even though I was getting whacked while he scored. Rio has been on fire for the Dragons and deserved his start,” said North.
“His first test, and a try to go with it, is huge. It was also great for Sam Costelow to come on as well for his first cap because he’s been playing some amazing rugby for the Scarlets.
“New Zealand had a game before this game to iron out anything, whereas we went straight into it. There were glimpses of some good rugby in there from us, but it is an 80-minute performance we need.
“We’ve just got to focus on pushing on.”
