Harley Bennell made his much-anticipated debut in purple against Geelong on Saturday, and while he impressed in limited game time, he said he was happy to hit the field in familiar surroundings.

“I went into the game knowing I was only going to play around 60 minutes but it was great to get out there and get a win with the boys,” Bennell said.

“It was also really good to get a solid hit out back home with all the family coming to watch.”

Fremantle steals late win

The prospect of a forward line consisting of Bennell and Michael Walters had Freo fans salivating all pre-season, and they received a glimpse of that on Saturday.

The talented duo combined on a number of occasions against Geelong, and Bennell said he’d like to see that success continue in 2016.

“‘Sonny’ (Walters) and I get along really well and we’re looking to continue playing our roles, which hopefully means kicking more goals for the Freo fans,” he said.

Bennell's first goal in purple

The Freo first-gamer collected 17 disposals, none of which meant more to him than his first goal for the club.

“I didn’t know if ‘Hilly’ (Hill) was kicking to me or Pavlich, but it was good to go back and put it through the big sticks,” he said.

“All the boys got around me so it was a great feeling.”