The Blues’ young playing list was faced with a number of challenges in 2018, and as a result, finished the year with fewer wins than previous seasons.

However, the valuable experience gained by first and second-year players, coupled with the resilience it built within the team, will no doubt hold the Club in good stead for years to come. 

With the side now on a break, we’re analysing each player’s year in statistics. Here’s the review for Carlton’s No. 10, Harry McKay.

GAMES

2018: 13
Career: 15

GOALS
2018: 21
Career: 24

BY THE NUMBERS (averages in brackets)
Disposals: 138 (10.6) Marks: 70 (5.4) Contested Marks: 20 (1.5) Goals: 21 (1.6) Contested Possessions: 68 (5.2) Tackles: 23 (1.8)

2018 IN FOCUS

McKay got the call-up for the Blues’ Round 5 clash against the Eagles, kicking a match-high and career-high four goals.

Following a six-week stint in the VFL, the 20-year-old returned to the big stage in Round 17 with greater intensity, averaging over 12 disposals and six marks in the final seven weeks of the season.

The 203cm spearhead ranked first amongst potential rising stars for goals per game, second for total marks inside 50 and fourth for contested marks per game.

McKay will be looking forward to completing his first full pre-season heading into 2019. Next year, he will undoubtedly look to turn cameos into consistent performances for the Blues.

BEST PERFORMANCE

In 2018, McKay managed a trio of three-plus goal hauls, including against the Giants in Round 20.

He also amassed an impressive 15 disposals and eight marks in arguably a career-best performance. Notably, his showing came against GWS co-captain Phil Davis.

SEASON HIGHLIGHT

McKay celebrated his well-earned first win for the Blues against Essendon in Round 8. With two majors and four inside 50s, he played an important role in securing the 13-point victory for Carlton.