FIRST impressions stick.

And Lachlan Langford’s maiden senior appearance for Box Hill Hawks was a good one.

After spending last season in the Hawks’ VFL development side, Langford broke through for senior VFL debut at the weekend, impressing in a strong 59-point win against Frankston at Box Hill City Oval.

Playing as a forward, the 19-year-old first game came with the lot.

Twenty-one disposals were complemented by 11 marks, six inside 50s, a goal and a couple of score assists.

“I was happy with how I played, so to play well on my debut was a bit of a monkey of the back I think,” Langford told boxhillhawks.com.au post-game.

“Now I know I can contribute to the team at that level, so it gives me confidence going forward.”

Langford featured in senior practice matches for Box Hill in the lead-up to 2016 - playing alongside older brother and Hawthorn premiership player Will for the first time – but had to force his way in through strong form at development level.

After three matches, Box Hill coach Marco Bello rewarded him with a call-up – and was far from disappointed with the result.

“It was a terrific debut for Lachie, one to watch there,” Bello said.

“He was working up the ground and did a really good job for us in the forward line.

“He finished with one himself but would have handed two or three over as assists as well.”

A final quarter goal was the icing on the cake for Langford – who was pleased to make a strong contribution for the team.

“Heading into the game - being a forward - obviously everyone wants to kick a goal, so it was nice to get a goal,” he said.

“(But) at the end of the day, goal or no goal, I was just sort of happy to play my role.”