Michael Apeness said kicking his maiden AFL goal was “an amazing feeling”, after slotting the major in his first Carlton Draught Derby on Sunday.

Apeness snapped the goal from deep in the right forward pocket after a strong mark, and said he was thrilled by the moment.

“It was an amazing feeling, as I saw I got it through, I was pretty pumped,” he said.

Drafted with pick 17 in 2013, Apeness has suffered a string of injuries, the latest being a broken collarbone against Essendon in round 11, which have limited his exposure to the senior football.

'We'll keep building' - Hill

Coach Ross Lyon, who said the club saw nothing but upside to Apeness, was pleased with his performance against West Coast.

“With the opportunity we are prepared to give, it’s pleasing, because we know he is a really dedicated worker and focused on his footy,” Lyon said.

Ahead of playing his first derby, Apeness said he was excited to run out in front of the Fremantle faithful.

“I was a bit nervous going in, but it was great to hear the fans cheering,” he said.

Hoping his injury woes are behind him, and having recently signed a new contract with the club, Apeness is focused on building into next season.

“I’m trying to build my craft up forward and a bit of ruck work,” he said.

“I just want to do my best and help the team out.”