Richmond VFL coach Jack Madgen admits while he is heartbroken after going down to Box Hill by just one point on Saturday, his team's efforts under trying circumstances must be commended.

With no AFL-listed players pulling on the boots for the VFL Round 8 clash against Box Hill, it was a battle that went down to the last minute, leaving Madgen impressed by the effort of a young brigade, including three debutants.

"I couldn't be more proud of their efforts," Madgen said post-match.

"I loved our spirit, I loved our fight. That was the most pleasing thing, and it's probably why it hurts so much with the boys, because we tried so hard again."

Three debutants, Kai Stewart, Caleb Nancarrow and James Milner, stood tall in their first official Richmond outing, slotting in with ease, and playing their role.

Stewart, in particular, caught the eye of keen onlookers, as he kicked two crucial goals, had 13 disposals and took four marks.

"Late in the game, Kai Stewart had a massive two-on-one effort, and his ball use to Ry Cantwell, to finish with a goal was awesome," Madgen said.

"Caleb Nancarrow in his first game had some big moments. James Milner brought some great moments ahead of the footy. They're the three debutants, but everyone had their moments."

There was also high praise for young key tall Zaydyn Lockwood, who bravely took on the ruck role in the absence of Samson Ryan and Oliver Hayes-Brown, who were both required for the AFL.

"It's hard because we have to change it up a lot [due to AFL injuries]. We had Zaydyn Lockwood rucking for his first game in the ruck for the year, which was great. We mixed up our midfield and had some new guys run through there," Madgen said.

The focus now quickly shifts to Essendon on Saturday at Windy Hill, with key areas already identified to take the next step.

"A lot of it is [learning] to be hard to play against and being a bit more proactive," Madgen said.