It was a tough introduction to the AFL for the Sydney Swans' Canadian recruit Mike Pyke.

It took him until the third quarter to get his first possession and that was only after he'd handed a free kick and subsequent goal away to Port Adelaide when he appeared unaware of the pre-season rule on kicking backwards.

Pyke also recorded two handballs and one mark in what was likely his first visit to the national capital since arriving in Sydney last year.

Not to mention he was part of the side that lost by 65 points in Sunday's first round NAB Cup clash between the two sides in Canberra.

But none of it stopped Swans coach Paul Roos from praising for the former rugby union international.

Pyke, Roos said, remains in contention as a ruckman for the season proper alongside youngster Daniel Currie (Currie) who may return from injury next week.

Roos gave the imposing Pyke plenty of time on the field in a bid to help him adopt to his new code but he will need plenty more time yet.

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