Ciaran Sheehan successfully got through his return match via the Northern Blues Development side this morning.

Playing his first game in over 18 months, Sheehan collected seven disposals and showed some customary dash off half-back in the opening half of the clash against Williamstown. 

Sheehan, who last played a game of football in August 2014 after hip and groin issues, got through his scheduled game time successfully.

Speaking post-match, Sheehan said it felt “great” to have returned, and that it had been “a long time coming”. 

“It was absolutely fantastic to get back out on the park and have a run around,” Sheehan said.

“I was blowing up a bit but I guess match fitness is always different to what you do on the track but I’m happy to be back and give the boys a hand.”

In further positive news, Sheehan said his hip - which has plagued him so often in the past year - felt good immediately after the game.

“The hip feels great, it pulled up fine which is important and now it’s about looking forward and hopefully the body holds up.”

After getting his first kick in the opening minute, Sheehan said it took some time to do away with the rust but he felt he worked into the game.

Sheehan mentioned the most heartening thing from his return was the support of his teammates after a long time away from the game. 

“There was a bit of rust alright, but I just had to shake that off and by the end of it, I felt a lot more comfortable,” Sheehan said.

“Everyone’s been great, the players and staff have all been getting around me which has been important for me.”