199-centimetre big man Ben McKay is turning heads at Arden Street.

The key-forward booted three goals and took several strong marks in an impressive performance during the Roos' practice match against Werribee last Saturday.

“It will definitely bring confidence for the next game,” McKay told NMFC.com.au.

“I’ve just got to keep building up, working on it and taking it into next week.”

McKay is keen to make the most of his opportunities in the coming weeks.

“It’s unfortunate we’ve got a few injuries at the moment, but you’ve got to keep worrying about your game and be confident,” he said. 

“Hopefully, fingers crossed, I’ll keep performing over the next couple of weeks and get an opportunity.”

The defensive side of McKay’s game is arguably just as important as the big marks and goals.

“Even though you are 200 centimetres, you’ve still got to be able to chase and pressure,” he said.

“Scotty’s (Brad Scott) pretty serious about that and he really harps on that.”

Now in his second year at North, McKay is loving life as an AFL footballer.

“Spending time in the gym, getting the fitness levels up, it’s been unbelievable,” he added.

“It’s so much better being a second-year player. You’ve got so much more of an understanding of game plan and the people around the club.”