14-game defender Ben McKay was given one of the toughest jobs in football on Saturday night, as he matched up on the red-hot, Charlie Dixon. 

When the Port Adelaide forward won a 1-on-1 contest in the goal square for his first goal, it looked like it could be a long night for McKay.

But the 22-year-old responded in brilliant fashion, keeping Dixon to only one more goal for the night, and just two marks. 

Coach Rhyce Shaw was full of praise for McKay in his post-match media conference. 

“He’s starting to take some big scalps now,” Shaw said. 

“Charlie Dixon has been sensational this year. 

“Getting one kicked on you early can deflate you a bit, but he’s a determined bugger. 

“I was really pleased with his efforts in nullifying him (Dixon).” 

McKay has cemented his spot in the backline after being a late inclusion in Round 7. 

“He’s got our faith, and deservedly so,” Shaw said.

“He relishes the challenge and he was rapt this week when he was told he was playing on Dixon. 

“I’ve never seen a bloke more excited. He wants those jobs and we’ll keep giving them to him.” 

Shaw highlighted the number 23’s work ethic, and is expecting more improvement from him. 

“The big guys do often take longer,” he said. 

“Ben really went to work over the pre-season and the COVID break and invested in his game and he’s really growing with confidence.

“He’s only going to get better because he works so hard.”