Jake Aarts definitely didn’t look out of place at the MCG yesterday in his AFL debut with Richmond against Melbourne.

The 25-year-old, tenacious small forward made the most of his long-awaited opportunity at the game’s highest level.

He finished the match with 15 disposals, three marks, three score involvements, three intercepts and 159 metres gained. 

Most importantly from a Tigers’ game-style perspective, he applied plenty of pressure to the Demon defenders.

Aarts drew praise from Richmond captain Trent Cotchin for his valuable contribution to the Tigers’ 27-point win.

“He was outstanding,” Cotchin told Channel Seven.

“I think we saw exactly why he was picked.

“His contest work for a little man is very good and he always shows up . . .

“I think he really performed well tonight and has slotted nicely into the team.”