The newest club in Aussie Rules, the Gold Coast, entered the VFL on Saturday with a loss against one the sport's oldest institutions.

The youthful Gold Coast tried hard in its round one clash at Fankhauser Reserve but Port Melbourne was too strong, claiming a 15-19 (109) to 15-9 (97) win in humid conditions.

All eyes were on Geelong premiership player Nathan Ablett, who was making his much publicised return to the game.

But the son of the legendary Gary Ablett Snr failed to fire, finishing goalless with just one kick for the day.

But Gold Coast coach Guy McKenna said he was comfortable with Ablett's contribution.

"I don't think he would be doing a cartwheel home saying `How good was I?'," said McKenna.

"But again with everyone you have to look at it as round one and they all could come off the ground and look their teammate in the eye.

"Nathan wasn't supplied with the best delivery at times and he worked as hard as he could offensively.

"Like all the boys, you always question defensively but with his opportunities I thought he did quite well."

Former North Melbourne player Daniel Harris was the best for the Gold Coast with four goals.

Defender Michael Coad, ruckman Zac Smith and West Australian youngster David Swallow also impressed for the Gold Coast.

The result was a good one for the Coast, who will develop their young group ahead of next year's AFL debut.

McKenna said he believed his side will do some damage in this year's VFL competition.

"I thought it was fantastic," he said.

"To come out and play like that against a side like Port was great.

"They were really keen to get out there and they all got through, barring a bit of cramp."

Port Melbourne were well supplied by former Western Bulldog Malcolm Lynch, who kicked four goals.

Former Magpie Callum Sinclair and Cory McGrath also impressed with three goals apiece.

Gold Coast are home to Williamstown in round two while Port Melbourne are away to the Bendigo Bombers.

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