North Melbourne duo Ben McKay and Will Phillips both polled votes towards the AFLCA Champion Player of the Year Award in the Kangaroos' narrow loss to Essendon on Sunday. 

Bombers boss Brad Scott and Kangaroos interim senior coach Brett Ratten were split on their best ground, with Dons duo Zach Merrett and Jordan Ridley earning nine votes each.

Ball-magnet Merrett had 34 disposals and kicked two goals, while defender Ridley took nine marks from 21 disposals.

McKay, who was back to his best against the Bombers, polled six votes after having 14 intercept possessions and 10 marks at 100% disposal efficiency.

Phillips earned three votes as he continued his strong run of form with more midfield minutes, racking up 27 disposals, eight clearances and six tackles.

Bomber Nic Martin was the only other player to poll after also receiving three votes.

Essendon v North Melbourne

9 Zach Merrett (ESS)
9 Jordan Ridley (ESS)
6 Ben McKay (NMFC)
3 Nic Martin (ESS)
3 Will Phillips (NMFC)

North Melbourne leaderboard

21 Luke Davies-Uniacke
16 Nick Larkey
13 Ben McKay
13 Harry Sheezel
11 Jy Simpkin
7 Bailey Scott
6 Jack Ziebell
3 Will Phillips
3 Todd Goldstein
2 Cameron Zurhaar
1 Charlie Comben
1 Hugh Greenwood