NATHAN Wright’s first proper four-quarter match at AFL level was an eye-opener.

Wright, who was St Kilda’s first draft pick (24 overall) at last year’s NAB AFL Draft, was given a taste of the AFL experience in the Saints’ two NAB Cup round one games against Adelaide and Port Adelaide.

But Sunday’s win over the Sydney Swans at Etihad Stadium was a more accurate depiction of AFL life for the former Berwick half-back.

“It was a lot different to the first one where we had Adelaide at the start and then Port,” Wright told saints.com.au.

“We played well in the first game and not so well in the second game. It was good to play the one team for the four quarters.

“It’s definitely a lot quicker (than TAC Cup), the transitions are pretty quick. I’ve got to get a handle of that and it’s way harder. There are some differences from under 18s football.”

While both the Saints and Swans were without many of their experienced senior players, Wright said it was a good challenge to take on and beat the team that won the premiership just six months earlier.

“It was pretty tough. They are a good quality team and it was pretty warm out on the ground. With the limited rotations it was pretty hard but it was good to get the win,” he said.

The 19-year-old was impressive on Sunday, gathering 17 touches and contributing solidly to the win. But he said that this game hadn't changed his objectives as the Saints move towards the start of the home and away season.

“I’m just trying to earn the respect of the boys down back and try to do my part,” he said.

“Everyone played pretty well. They played their roles and we all stuck to our structures.”