Playing in just his second AFL match, Dylan Buckley stood tall for Carlton in Thursday night's 12-point loss to Richmond at the MCG.
The 21-year-old impressed with 18 disposals and six tackles, earning the praise of coach Mick Malthouse post match, who described Buckley as a "diligent young man" whose efforts deserved to be highlighted.
Although the result didn't go Carlton's way, Buckley says his team showed plenty of heart to fight back.
"Considering how poor we played in the first-half, I suppose it's a real credit to the boys for fighting back in the second-half," Buckley said.
"We still probably have a lot to improve on in that half, but it just goes to show if we can start like that and play that kind of game for four quarters, we should have no trouble in cementing more wins."
Buckley spent the evening on Carlton's back-line – a change of pace for the usual forward.
"My mentors are Kade Simpson, Chris Yarran and Heath Scotland – all fantastic back-line players. I'm really learning from the best," Buckley said.
Dylan Buckley gets away from Richmond captain Trent Cotchin. (Photo: Lachlan Cunningham/AFL Media)
"I had never played down back before, so when Mick gave me the tap on the shoulder at the end of last year and said he wanted me on the back pocket, I wasn't sure how it would go."
"But I love it! It's given me a bit of excitement and sets me a good target for the game."
