Sometimes the worth of experience can be underestimated in football, and it was the calming influence of veteran defender Harry Taylor that made all the difference for Lachie Fogarty on debut. 

Fogarty, who was picked with the 22^nd selection in last year’s draft, says he was a ball of energy prior to the bounce. 

“I was pretty excited and there was still an hour to go until the game,” he said.

 “I was pretty nervous, especially in the changerooms. Harry Taylor actually spoke to me and just said if you need to sit down and just relax for a second [you should].”

The presence of 50,000 fans at the MCG was a new experience for the young Cat. 

“I’ve been on the ‘G twice before and played there but not in front of that crowd, so I was trying to take it all in,” he said 

Taylor’s words of wisdom helped Fogarty achieve his best on the day, as the prolific junior racked up 20 disposals, kicked a goal and helped pile on the pressure. 

“I think everyone provided that pressure and it was really good the midfielders were covering their outlets so they couldn’t get that release kick,” he said.

“From Scotty and all the other coaches they were really happy and I played my role at the end of the day. It was nice to get on the scoreboard as well and kick a goal.”