Kobe Mutch fulfilled his dream of playing for Essendon on Sunday and has described his AFL debut as “an honour”.

Mutch was selected with pick 42 in the 2016 National Draft, but was unable to break into the senior side in his first year at the club despite finishing second in the VFL team’s best and fairest.

But despite a knee injury interrupting his second pre-season, Mutch maintained his momentum and fought his way into the team to take on Melbourne.

It didn’t take long for Mutch to impress on the big stage, finding the ball early in the game and using it cleanly, and he said the immediate support from Bombers fans helped him feel comfortable.

“It was an unbelievable experience, just to represent a great club with such a proud history and so many members, it was truly an honour,” Mutch said post-match.

“Hearing the roar from the fans just helped me a lot (to) ease into the game.

Mutch said he had faith pre-game that he could prove his worth at the top level before he went on to gather 20 disposals at 70 per cent efficiency and rake in six marks in an impressive display.

“I was pretty confident coming into the game, I knew that I was going to bring effort.

“You’ve got to bring effort and play your role for the team and that’s all the team asks of you.”

A contingent of Mutch’s family and friends trekked down to Etihad Stadium and he said it was special to have them by his side.

“They’re a great support, they’ve helped me all through my juniors, so to have them here…was great.”

Kobe’s mother Juliann was in attendance and said her son’s debut was a result of great patience and persistence.

“When we did actually get confirmation it was just an amazing feeling and I knew he’d be so relieved, because he’s just been anxiously waiting,” she said before the match.

“I’ve always been proud of his work ethic. I think he is incredibly dedicated, but I’m most proud that he’s a good person.”

She said to have Kobe run out onto the field in the red and black for the side he has always supported was a dream come true.

“From a child of five (years old) to go to the AFL, let alone the club that you wanted to, it is special.”