Gold Coast debutant Jarrod Witts is driven to improve after a tough AFL loss to Brisbane in round one.
The Suns were hammered early by the Lions, but came back from a 46-point half-time deficit to lose by two points.
After playing his first match for the Suns, Witts hopes to use the lessons from the contest to cement his spot in the side.
"It is disappointing to lose, but at the same time we'll take a lot out of it," Witts told reporters on Tuesday.
The former Collingwood ruckman faces stiff competition for the position at the Suns, competing against Dan Currie and Tom Nicholls, who played in a NEAFL practice match ahead of the AFL game on Saturday.
Witts knows the scenario well, having battled for game time with Darren Jolly and Brodie Grundy at Collingwood. It was part of the motivation for his move to the Suns to earn more game time and forge a successful career at the club.
The 24-year-old said the new third man up rule should suit him and might give him the edge over his teammates.
"It's quite good knowing you've only got to go up against one person, you don't need to worry about what's going on behind you or someone kneeing you in the side or the back," the 209cm-tall Witts said.
"Hopefully with my height I can give the midfielders some clear first use."
Witts is also aiming to develop different skills and grow into something more than a traditional ruckman.
"Nowadays the quality ruckmen have a second and third string in their game, whether that's going forward, following up the ball, giving your midfielders a few clearances, tackles, I think you do have to bring that side of your game as well if you want to elevate yourself to the top five in the competition."
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