Emerging defender Harry Edwards added another notch to his belt on the weekend, joining a youthful Eagles squad in their clash against Carlton at the SCG.

The 20-year-old racked up a career-high performance with 15 disposals, 12 kicks, three tackles and four intercept marks.

He was also able to line-up alongside childhood heroes in defensive stalwart Tom Barrass and superboot Shannon Hurn, who provided the younger backline with over 385 games experience.

“I felt pretty good on the weekend, obviously it’s good to have some experienced leaders back there like Tom Barrass and Shannon Hurn,” Edwards said.

“But, stoked to get back out there and get a chance to string a few games together and hopefully get a few more this year.”

The inexperienced defender also looking towards Jeremy McGovern’s aerial ability and strength around the contest as a measurement for his own playing style.

“Jeremy McGovern is the one to look to in that regard, so I try and take bits from his game, bits from Barrass’ game, and hopefully if I can be half the player Jeremy McGovern and Tom Barrass are, it will hold me in good stead.

“Unfortunately I haven’t even played in the same game as him before, but that’s just the nature of AFL playing the same role.”

Now, Edwards is hopeful to continue his learning curve through on-field experience and match minutes.

The young gun feeling as though his game is beginning to hit fruition, after doubling his disposal and tackle numbers from the GWS match in round 10.

“It’s building, obviously your first few you’re a bit nervy, just getting used to the speed of the game, but I think  on the weekend I took a big step in feeling comfortable in the level.

“Myself and a lot of the other young boys played a few good games and hopefully we get a few more.

“Obviously it’s good to have a bit of youth, I think, because the boys are quite excited when boys like Lukey Edwards’ debut, there’s a bit of excitement about that, and Luke Foley’s first goal was quite exciting for all of us.“