Western Bulldogs midfielder Mitch Wallis has made a strong return to the Footscray VFL side in their massive win over North Ballarat on Friday night.
Wallis fractured his tibia and fibula against St Kilda in round 18 last season, and made his long-awaited comeback in the Bulldogs' 124-point win over the Roosters.
The 23-year-old played 90 minutes of game time throughout the match, and was one of the best players on the ground after collecting 34 disposals, 11 tackles and snagging three goals.
Wallis spoke to AFL.com.au after the win, and said he was thrilled to return to the field following nine months on the sidelines.
"I was a little bit nervous before the game, but I couldn’t wait to get out there," Wallis said.
"I was able to play with freedom, which was nice, because I got tackled a few times and made a few tackles and (my leg) didn't really cross my mind.
"It's a foundation and hopefully I can build on that from here."
Despite dominating in his first game back, Wallis believes he'll have to go around in the VFL again before being available for senior selection.
"I’m assuming (the club) wants me to get through a full game in the VFL next week first," he said.
"In terms of how I feel, I'm ready (to play senior footy), but I'll just go by the physiotherapist's call and (Luke Beveridge's) call."
Premiership forward Tory Dickson also made his first appearance of the season, bagging three goals in his return from an abdominal strain coupled with off-season groin surgery.
