St Kilda forward Paddy McCartin has again put his case forward for an AFL recall after another strong performance against Coburg at Piranha Park on Sunday.
McCartin booted four majors, pulling in 13 marks to go with 18 disposals in a performance that now sees him with 18 goals in five weeks at VFL level.
“Paddy McCartin is really banging the door down on AFL selection and as much as we love having him inside 50 at Sandringham, he wants to be playing consistent AFL football and we want to see him do well,” VFL coach Lindsay Gilbee told saints.com.au.
“He’s been tremendous for us with his work rate and he has an enormous ability to keep competing and taking contested marks, as well as hitting the scoreboard. We envisage his AFL recall won’t be too far away.”
Gilbee highlighted the three-goal performance of St Kilda draftee Ben Long along with the consistencies of runners Shane Savage and Dan McKenzie, picking up 33 and 26 disposals respectively.
“Ben Long’s second half was really good and we were rapt he was able to hit the scoreboard like he did. He’s a really talented kid and he’s another who will play some more AFL football throughout the year but he’s a very exciting prospect.
“Shane Savage and Dan McKenzie have been really important this year and in particular the last two weeks with their run and carry. They’re players that use the ball really well and they’ve accumulated a lot of it again today.”
