Ben McKay took another stride towards adding to his solitary AFL appearance with a strong performance in North’s VFL practice match against the Coburg Lions at Arden St on Saturday.

The 201-centimetre key-position prospect was a colossus in the backline, taking a host of excellent intercept marks, and was rarely beaten in the contest. 

VFL Coach, David Loader was impressed with what he saw from the 20-year-old. 

“Ben McKay down back worked really well as a key defender, and showed how good he can be and how effective he can be when he plays aggressive football,” Loader told North Media. 

McKay wasn’t the only member of the defensive unit to impress, with VFL co-captain Michael Close also a stand-out.

“Michael Close was terrific coming in for his first game for the club today,” Loader said. 

“He helps us greatly with his leadership and his voice out on the ground.” 

Further up the field, Will Walker was the pick of the midfielders, with his pace causing Coburg plenty of problems. 

“Will was impressive, because he was able to break lines for us,” VFL Assistant Coach Ben Dyer said.

“He can run and carry and really penetrate by foot, which is something that our VFL team needs, but our AFL team needs as well.” 

The first-year midfielder also kicked arguably the goal of the game, as he left his opponent flailing with an effortless sidestep before launching from 50.