When it comes to challenges, they don’t come much bigger than Mason Cox.

At 211 centimetres tall, Cox boasts a height advantage over every player in the competition.

So when Sam Durdin, at 198 centimetres, was tasked with the role of shutting down the Magpies’ big man, he knew he had to be switched on.

“It was obviously a pretty big challenge. I think he’s the tallest guy in the league, so for me it was pretty important doing my homework to try and nullify and get around his height,” Durdin told North Media.

“I’d spoken with Robbie Tarrant, who played on him (Cox) a fair bit last year at the MCG. I just tried to keep him away from the footy as much as possible and try and block him from getting into those good positions.”

Durdin kept Cox to 9 disposals and 2 goals, but just as impressively had an equal career-high 18 possessions himself.  

After just the one senior game last year, the key-defender is making the most of an extended run at AFL level.

“It’s been pretty nice to play three games on the trot now … the more I play, the more confidence I’m getting and feeling a lot more comfortable out there,” Durdin said.

“The guys in the back six make it a lot easier for me as well, so it’s really good to be a part of.”

Watch the full interview above.