Notable performances from several key emerging prospects has given North Melbourne a positive start to the VFL season.

Established trio Jamie Macmillan, Shaun Atley and Todd Goldstein spoke with North Media about the development of the club’s young list, highlighting players who have stood-out in recent weeks.

Macmillan, a mainstay in North’s defence under Senior Coach Brad Scott, underlined the efforts of big men Ben McKay and Sam Durdin, who have been key figures for North’s VFL side in the season proper.

“Particularly on the weekend, I thought a couple of the key backs in Ben McKay and Sam Durdin were really good,” Macmillan told North Media.

“They’re playing AFL standard footy down in the VFL and having a really good impact.”

Macmillan was also quick to praise the integration of Tom Murphy and Alex Morgan, with both having made a smooth transition, boasting a strong presence in the royal blue and white.

“Murphs’ and Morgs’ have transitioned to the club really well,” he added.

“It’s both their first years here and have had some things to work on. Their strengths are breaking the lines and using the footy, particularly last weekend. I think both of them were excellent in that facet of the game.”

Key forward Nick Larkey has continued his rich vein of form, booting seven goals in the last two games.

The towering goal-sneak, alongside Will Walker have caught the attention of Shaun Atley, who has closely observed the progress of the potential game-breakers.

“Nick Larkey has been really good. He’s obviously kicked a few bags over the last few weeks,” he said.

“He’s hit up at the ball and he’s pretty clean below his knees for a big man. He’s been impressive.

“Will’s been good, using his aerobic running, getting up and back the ground and on the end of a few, as well. He’s come a long way in the last few weeks.”

With a plethora of key talls at David Loader’s disposal, it’s easy to see why Todd Goldstein holds the ruck capabilities of Braydon Press and Tristan Xerri in such high regard.

Preuss and Xerri have alternated to great success in the ruck, displaying their aerial prowess in asserting their authority on games from the opening bounce.

“I think what you get from Braydon is that big strong presence, a bit of domination around the stoppages,” said Goldstein.

“Tristan’s been the most impressive so far in terms of how he’s come to AFL level and he’s really put his body on the line. We’ve seen a number of clips where he’s going back with the flight and taking some good marks.

“Both of them together, I think they’re starting to work pretty well in tandem. It’s always good to have them pushing up and keep driving us forward.

“I think coming up against them in the VFL would be a pretty tough ask. You’ve got to play two very distinct styles and they’re both very polarising.”

Fans are invited to attend Saturday’s VFL match against Essendon at Windy Hill, with the first bounce at 12.00pm.