McGrath started most games on the bench in the senior but he had an impact virtually every time he was let loose. His pace and ability to find space posed problems for opposition sides and when he got the ball in front of goal he rarely let the side down. He also worked very hard on the defensive side of his game - he laid 25 tackles in his 13 games - an excellent result when you think he spent so much time on the bench.
McGrath will be very keen for the real stuff to begin in March but he will want to re-establish his credentials in the pre-season competition. Kevin Sheedy is happy to make players earn their stripes and if he thinks McGrath isn't fully wound up he will have to work his way back into the senior side. But McGrath's pre-season has been very impressive - he is fitter than he has ever been an he looks certain to become a regular in the senior side.
He is a plyer the Bombers will be very keen to further develop. At 22 years of age he is about to enter the prime of his football career. If he can have a significant input for the Bombers this season, the pressure will be taken off some of the more established players and the team will prosper as a result. McGrath has an important part to play.
What will be his role on match day?
McGrath could play a role across the half back line but is more likely to be used as a pinch-hitter in the mid-field. His pace and football smarts add creativity to the mid-field and he will create opportunities for those around him.
What will the coaches expect?
One thing they won't expect is for McGrath to take his foot off the accelerator now he is on the verge of establishing himself in the senior side. They will want to see McGrath fierce at every contest and never satisfied. If he has that hunger he will stay in the senior side.
