While it's been a season to remember so far for Carlton forward Harry McKay, the in-form Blues big man had a moment to forget early into Saturday's clash with Fremantle.
With the Blues switching to attack after regaining possession through the corridor, McKay was out the back deep in his side's forward 50 and took a mark to be within close range of a shot on goal.
With some breathing space between McKay and young Dockers defender Josh Draper, the former decided to run into open goal for an easier bit of the apple.
When checking over his shoulder for any incoming opponents, the Coleman Medal winner fumbled the Sherrin just outside of the goalsquare to squander an easy opportunity to double his side's score midway through the opening term.
A second chance to regain possession and add to his side's sole goal was eventually out of reach as Fremantle's backline retreated to take back possession and clear any danger deep in defence
OH NO! McKay drops the ball running into the open goal ๐ฎ
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With just one goal prior to McKay's seemingly straight-forward chance, the missed opportunity was costly as the Dockers held an early lead at the Adelaide Oval.
Carlton skipper Patrick Cripps was able to slot home a set shot with the quarter-time break nearing to put the Blues back within a point.
McKay's form so far in 2024 has the Blues forward in career-best form, with accurate goalkicking and his aerial dominance so far aiding Michael Voss' side to a perfect record from their first three games.
Saturday's Gather Round clash with Fremantle sees both sides go into the game without a loss, offering to be a mouth-watering affair in Adelaide.
You can follow Fremantle vs Carlton live via Zero Hanger's match centre below.ย