Prized Carlton draftee Jacob Weitering showed the composure his teammates lacked in a pre-season debut that confirmed his class, according to coach Brendon Bolton.
While decision-making and control were aspects of the Blues' game in short supply in their 60-point loss to Essendon at Ikon Park, Weitering was singled out by his coach after shining in his first competitive hit-out with the club.
It was a performance that charmed the crowd of more than 18,000 and should all but seal the No.1 draft pick's place in the Blues' backline when they take on Richmond in round one.
"I'd like to highlight Jacob Weitering … he took six intercept marks and looked pretty calm with the ball down back when he had it," Bolton said post-match.
"I think it was a terrific start for a guy straight out of under-18s to play with that composure."
Weitering finished with 19 possessions and nine marks, playing on the last line of defence, occasionally as a loose man, with the 18-year-old displaying the leadership he had been known for through his junior career.
Fellow draftees Jack Silvagni and Harry McKay were held back in the first half but each showed glimpses of their talent late in the game.
McKay took a strong mark and converted his set shot, while Silvagni, who was welcomed to the game with a handshake from Brendon Goddard, won five possessions in the final term.
"They had a little sniff of what it takes and what it feels like," Bolton said.
The Blues left out their first-choice midfield, with Patrick Cripps, Marc Murphy, Bryce Gibbs and Matthew Kreuzer all training on Sunday morning.
Bolton said he wasn't second-guessing that decision, despite the 10-goal margin.
"We know the NAB Challenge is all about management and trial of players," he said.
"That was all part of the plan and it's good exposure for [our young players].
"It's a long season of AFL season, so you've got to be very mindful of managing loads.
"We use our sports science and high performance group and we make decisions that are best for our list and round one."
The Blues kept their rotations to 90 on Sunday and only used 21 players in the first half, eventually getting through their full squad of 26 in the second half, with four players rotating off the bench.
