Emily Gough is keen to keep building her game out for the Bombers in year one.

The key forward’s debut showcased her versatility in the wake of Bonnie Toogood’s injury, shuffling into multiple positions including as a makeshift ruck and holding a key post in defence through the final term.

Given last year’s pick No.20 already expected a step up in quality for her first experience at the level, Gough took the positional changes in stride and looks ready to build from the season-opener in the coming weeks.

“The first game’s always going to be really tough,” Gough said.

“You learn a lot but I’m just happy to be out there and one game done, we’ll see how we go.

Debuting alongside fellow draftee Amy Gaylor, the pair didn’t look out of place at AFLW level and held their own in spite of the 43-point defeat on home deck.

It’s a brick-by-brick approach for Gough, who’s determined to grow from each taste of the action.

“(In) so many aspects of the game, it’s faster, tougher, harder but that’s what we come to the big league for. I’m here to grow and get better, and I’m just excited for what’s to come.”

Gough will now look ahead to the Dons’ round two clash with West Coast in Perth, the first interstate trip of her young career.

The Bombers take on the Eagles from 1:05pm AEST on Saturday.