You’ll be forgiven for thinking Trent Rivers was an experienced veteran, rather than a fresh-faced debutant in his first season in the big league.

The Bullcreek-Leeming export produced a sparkling start to his AFL career in Melbourne’s narrow win over Carlton at Marvel Stadium.

AFL draft 2019: Trent Rivers profile, highlights, stats

The under-18 All-Australian had six touches and 153 metres gained, the second-most on the ground, in the first quarter alone.

It didn’t take long for the footy world to take notice of the dashing half-back, who slid to pick 32 in last year’s national draft after an interrupted pre-season with glandular fever.

Rivers, who captained East Fremantle’s WAFL colts last season, was one of two ex-Sharks to debut against the Blues today alongside close mate Luke Jackson.

Rated one of the best kicks in last year’s draft pool, the 18-year-old lived up to that reputation with a 90 per cent disposal efficiency, showing elite poise and class with ball in hand.

WA Football Commission state talent manager Adam Jones predicted Rivers would turn out to be an absolute steal at pick 32.

Even with his health issues last year, he was named in the under-18s All-Australian team in a carnival-winning campaign — 22 disposals at 77 per cent efficiency.

His WAFL numbers were more impressive, amassing 25-plus possessions in each of his nine games last season.

“He had a really interrupted year last year and was still able to get All-Australian honours,” Jones said.

“Melbourne recruiters probably thought with a couple of big pre-seasons into him with no health concerns, his impact would improve even more so I think it was a very good pick by them.”

Rivers was one of the better players on ground in the first half as the Demons took a 39-point advantage into the main break.

Injury-prone former Docker Harley Bennell also found plenty of the footy in his first AFL appearance since round 23, 2017, with eight first-half touches.