New Carlton recruit Sam Docherty and International Rookie Ciaran Byrne began new footballing chapters last weekend at Visy Park.

The Irish recruit was an impressive contributor in his first ever match of Australian Rules football for the Northern Blues Development side, victorious over Williamstown by 29 points.

Playing just over half of the match on modified time, Byrne made the most of his time on the ground, finishing with three goals and 11 disposals.

Each of Byrne’s goals were highlights, with two bombs from the 50m arc as well as a clever snap around his body on his non-preferred left foot.

Northern Blues Head Coach Luke Webster praised Byrne’s performance.

“I thought Ciaran was really good. Early he was running around without much purpose, which was to be expected given he’s playing his first ever game,” Webster said.

“But I thought he worked his way into the game really well. We wanted to give him that taste of 50 or 60 per cent game time and for him to kick a few goals was fantastic.

“He showed a few things that he could be a really good player for us at this level. For him to get that first match under his belt – it’s great to see.”

While it was Byrne's first Aussie Rules match, Docherty ran out for his first as a part of his new life at Carlton, making an impressive return from injury as the Northern VFL side snatched victory by four points.

The former Brisbane Lion provided a steadying influence across half back, with 21 high-quality possessions and a superb running goal – the highlight in the Northern Blues' comeback.

Of Docherty, Webster said it was pleasing to for the 20-year-old to have such a convincing return from injury.

“Sam’s ability to win the ball and I thought some of his ball use at times was a big plus for us,” Webster said.

“Hopefully we can get him up into the Carlton line-up, but while we have him at VFL level, we’re going to utilise him.

“He was terrific from half back and really contributed to the win.”

The Northern Blues host Frankston at Visy Park on Saturday. Byrne’s Development side kick off as the curtain raiser at 11.30am, ahead of the VFL clash at 2.30pm.