David Cuningham and Harry McKay continued their gradual returns from injury in the Northern Blues’ 31-point win on Saturday. 

Both men featured for the VFL side after lengthy injury layoffs, as Cuningham played his first game at the level since Round 7 while McKay made his VFL debut. 

Cuningham collected 16 disposals and McKay kicked two goals among his eight possessions, as both got through their scheduled limited game-time.

The duo returned alongside Jesse Glass-McCasker and Daniel Gorringe as the Blues registered their fifth win of the season, and their first since Round 10.

Northern Blues senior coach Josh Fraser said he was pleased with their returns and excited by the prospect of their gradual increase in form and fitness. 

“They all performed quite well given they’ve missed some footy. We were really encouraged by Gorringe, Glass-McCasker and Cuningham who all showed plenty,” Fraser said.

“Then we were able to get Harry on and I thought there were some really encouraging signs. They’ll all keep building from here.

“We’re really excited by our young players and the way they’ve approached their rehab and preparing themselves to perform has been terrific.”

The weekend marked the first occasion where all five of Carlton’s national draft selections had featured in action all on the same weekend.

Northern hosts Footscray this Sunday in the return to Ikon Park, with the sides to meet for the second time in 2016 after the Dogs emerged victorious in Round 1. 

After Footscray’s one-point win over ladder leader Casey yesterday, Fraser said the game would provide an opportunity to gauge the progression of his side since the start of the season.

“I’d like to think we’re a better side than we were in Round 1 but there are definitely still a number of areas which we need to hone in on,” Fraser said. 

“It’s going to be a terrific challenge, and one where we need to back up after the weekend’s win. 

“It’ll be nice to be back at Ikon and perform at home, but we know we’re against a formidable opponent so the way we review the weekend will be really important.”

The Blues host the Dogs this Sunday at 2pm at Ikon Park, with entry free for Carlton and/or Northern Blues members.