Rookie listed ruckman Fraser Thurlow has improved his chances of a call up to the senior list after an impressive hit out against Gold Coast on Monday night.

Thurlow shared the ruck duties with Patrick Ryder in his first match for the club since being recruited in the rookie draft.

The 200cm big man put in a strong performance in his first match finishing with 15 hit outs, three marks and 12 disposals.

Senior coach Mark Thompson was impressed by how Thurlow handled his first match in the red and black.

“I like him, he was impressive, he was good and was competitive,” Thompson said post match.

“Fraser was raw when he first came in and kids when first come in are so far from it but it is amazing how quick they can learn a couple of principles.”

“He has the couple of principles, there is a long way to go but we are pleased with what he has done so far.”

“Actually we are more than pleased.”

Thurlow is in contention for a promotion to the club’s senior replacing list to replace Tom Bellchambers who is currently on the long-term injury list.

Bellchambers is expected to miss at least the first month of the season after having surgery on his ankle last month.

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