New recruit Farren Ray says Saturday’s intra-club match gave him a chance to gel further with his new teammates.
Ray, selected in December's Rookie Draft, got his first taste of competitive action roaming the wing at Arden St, and he didn't disappoint.
The 205-gamer was a key player throughout the day, racking up plenty of the football.
But he was more focused on the performance of the team.
“I thought we showed some very good signs,” Ray told NMFC.com.au after the match.
“I thought we did what we’ve been practising most of this pre-season. In the second half a lot of the young guys got a go and they certainly showed a bit.”
Ray said he was having no trouble getting used to life as a Kangaroos' player, with the entire playing group helping to make his move an easy transition.
“Most of the group is pretty set, so I’m the one working my way into a new team.
"The boys have been terrific, it’s a really level-headed group and it’s very easy to play amongst such a good side.
"I’ve been amongst good sides in the past, so it’s really promising to be able to fit into the side and play my role."
The 29-year-old drew praise from his former Bulldogs' teammate Shaun Higgins earlier in the week.
“He’s impressed everyone and no doubt the coaches are rapt with the way he’s trained,” Higgins said.
“He’s earnt the respect of the playing group with the way he goes about it.
“I’ve been good mates with Farren for a long time, so it’s good to reunite. We’re both enjoying our footy and it’ll be great to see him get another opportunity this year.”
Next up for Ray is a meeting with his former side St Kilda, in the first of the club’s official pre-season hit-outs on February 20.
While not underestimating the importance the NAB Challenge plays in a team's preparation, Ray is focused on another important date in 2016.
“NAB Challenge is always a good hit-out and another way to build up the match fitness, but to be honest I can’t wait for Round 1 actually.”
As a rookie, Ray has an extra mountain to climb in order to make his debut in the royal blue and white, but he's certainly putting his best foot forward so far.
