Leigh Tudor says the JLT Series clash against Melbourne was a great tool to expose some youngsters to the highest level. 

While the Roos fell short on the scoreboard, the chances provided to several emerging players could prove invaluable come the start of the season. 

"The whole theme of the day was to give opportunity to players and that's what we did," Tudor said.

"Young defensive and attacking key position players it takes them years to learn the game plan, learn to get strong… a few of those guys get their chance today so they'll learn from that."

Alex Morgan, Luke Davies-Uniacke and Billy Hartung all played their first games for the club, while key talls Ben McKay, Nick Larkey and Sam Durdin were among others to enjoy extended runs. 

Former Hawk Hartung was one of the Roos' best in his first outing in the traditional format. 

He finished with 17 disposals and booted two goals.  

"Billy was really good, especially in the first half. He showed the reasons why we wanted him at the club – he's a good runner, he's a good ball user and he really had a crack for us today so we were really happy with his first-up performance," Tudor said.

North was missing a number of experienced players from its lineup, with important defender Jamie Macmillan a late withdrawal due to illness. 

The Roos' next JLT Series game is against Richmond on March 7, at Ikon Park.