A handful of young Saints made the most of their opportunity at Etihad Stadium on Friday night, putting their hands up for the JLT Community Series, says AFLX Coach Ben McGlynn.

Tall forward Rowan Marshall provided a strong marking target against Essendon in game one, building on his impressive second summer at Linen House Centre, as he looks to add to his one game of senior experience.

Livewire small forward Ben Long also looked dangerous in the hybrid version of the game, while Josh Battle got on the end of a few forays forward.

St Kilda’s first pick in last November’s NAB AFL Draft, Hunter Clark, looked composed in his first appearance in red, white and black, displaying some of the poise he is renowned for.

“We showed a few kids tonight which is important for the supporters and they all enjoyed the experience,” McGlynn told reporters after AFLX on Friday night.

“I think Rowan Marshall in the first game was a real standout for us – he’s had a good summer – along with Ben Long as well.

“In the second game, Hunter Clark was really composed under pressure and he’s put his hand up throughout the summer to push for selection in the JLT.”

In the aftermath of the inaugural AFLX tournament, McGlynn told journalists he relished the opportunity to drive the program alongside Assistant Coach, Lindsay Gilbee, and Performance Analysis Manager, Robbie Chancellor.

“I really enjoyed the experience of heading up the coaching with Lindsay Gilbee and Robbie Chancellor,” he said.

“The boys seem to enjoy the experience, so I think it’s a good concept.”