The new coach spoke highly of the efforts of 24-year-old matured-aged rookie James Magner, as well as teammates Tom Couch and Daniel Nicholson.
Played in at times torrential rain at Metricon Stadium, the Demons came away with a win, against the Brisbane Lions, and a loss, to Gold Coast, and, importantly, without injury.
Although not wanting to single anyone out, Neeld said the Demons' first up performances under his coaching - a three-point loss to Gold Coast and three-point win over the Lions - were terrific.
"We got away unscathed injury wise and I thought we played four consistent, competitive quarters," Neeld said.
"It was pleasing to win that second game and the manner that we did, albeit, I won't kid myself, the conditions lent itself to a close battle."
Neeld said Magner had thrown himself into the mix for an elevation to the senior list after an impressive night on the Gold Coast.
"He's been playing VFL and been a standout in that for half a dozen years and we rookie drafted him to add some strength to the midfield and he's done that on the training track," Neeld said.
"I'm going to elevate someone, but not this week. We'll trot them out against the Pies and see how they go."
He said fellow rookies Couch and Nicholson also played well and were another pleasing point of the night.
Michael Whiting covers AFL news for AFL.com.au. Follow him on Twitter: @AFL_mikewhiting
The views in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those of the club
