Former Hampton Rovers junior Christian Salem made his AFL debut for Melbourne on Saturday night against the Sydney Swans at the MCG.
Demons Coach Paul Roos says he was pleased with his contribution when he came on in the third quarter after starting as substitute.
Roos said Salem, who booted Melbourne’s only goal in the final term, showed some promising signs on debut.
“One of the few advantages of having a sub is bringing on a young kid, a bit fresh late in the game and they’re able to show their wares,” he said following Melbourne’s 31-point loss.
“There’s a long, long way to go, but it’s [a] pleasing [debut from Salem].”
Roos said Salem had to wait his turn to play for the Demons, but had earned his call-up through strong performances in the VFL.
After coming on the ground in the final term to big cheers from the Demons crowd, Salem had six kicks, three marks and kicked a goal. However the Dees were no match for Sydney who ran away 31-point winners.
The number nine pick in the 2013 NAB AFL Draft was one of three former Hampton Rovers players on the ground Saturday night with Chris Dawes lining up alongside the debutant and also Ted Richards for the Swans who had a short stint at the Rovers.
Paul Roos has named an unchanged line-up for his side who takes on the Crows at Adelaide Oval on Saturday.
RELATED:
– Salem to debut for Melbourne
– Salem, Amon & Hunt picked up in AFL Draft
– List of Hampton Rovers AFL Players
