American Mason Cox kicks goal with first touch in AFL

MATCH CENTRE: Collingwood v Essendon

American Mason Cox made his AFL debut in the Anzac Day blockbuster, kicking off his career in style with the opening goal of the game.

Cox, a former Oklahoma State University basketball player has been impressing Collingwood teammates and coaches in training with his athletic ability and the mobile big man's skills are no longer a secret after his impressive game against Essendon.

He is the 11th player to make his full AFL debut in the biggest game of the home-and-away season and he's certainly made his presence felt.

Cox, brought in to replace Travis Cloke, showed impressive skills as Collingwood belted Essendon by 69 points.

Coach Nathan Buckley said he would stay in the side for next week's game against West Coast.

His whole family - parents Phil and Jeanette, plus older brothers Nolan and Austin and their girlfriends - flew out from the United States for Monday's match.

"The first bounce, (it) gets underway and within two minutes here's Mason with a mark - I couldn't believe it," Phil said.

"And he scores. We were just thrilled. It was just the ultimate thrill."

Asked post-match if he was nervous about the moment, Cox laughed out loud.

"Of course you are - it's only 85,000 people and you've played the game for two years," he said.

"It's an unreal experience, it's amazing what's happened in my life in the past three or four years.

"It's a crazy rollercoaster, I wouldn't change it for the world."

Collingwood haven't had a lot to cheer for this season so far, but the fans absolutely loved the sight of their international rookie getting on the board with his first shot for goal.

with AAP