Dennis Armfield made a successful return from injury in the Northern Blues' 14-point win over Geelong last night.
Armfield played a pivotal role in Northern's come-from-behind win, which saw the Blues recover from a slow start to emerge with a precious win.
He registered 14 disposals and a team-high six inside 50s, providing some vital run and leadership in a youthful Blues line-up.
Armfield said he had successfully got through his return match in what was a "special" win.
"It was good to get through unscathed, the boys really got around me which was super and most importantly we got the win on the board," Armfield said post-match.
It was Armfield's first game since July last year, as a broken arm and hamstring troubles resulted in a long injury layoff.
Aside from feeling the effects of a taxing contest, Armfield said his arm and hamstring were feeling good after the win.
"It's been a long time since July last year, so I was a bit rusty and had to blow out the cobwebs but to come away with a win, it's a credit to everyone.
"The arm's good, the hammy was good, it's probably everything else that's sore - it was a physical game out there."
Armfield's return coincided with Northern's first win under new senior coach Josh Fraser, and their first victory in 292 days since a record-breaking win over Frankston last year.
Great to be back out on the park. Has been a long 8 months, many thanx to everyone for the kind… https://t.co/7ZZ7iDDDWY
— Dennis Armfield (@Darmfield27) April 16, 2016
The victory over the Cats was an all too rare one for the Blues: it was Northern's first win against Geelong in five years.
Armfield said the way the team held onto a victory after a short turnaround was a testament to the players and coaching staff.
"We really rallied in that second quarter, and to finish off the way we did was great," Armfield said.
"It was great to have that spirit back - it was a super team effort, and we couldn't be any happier or prouder.”
The Northern Blues’ next game comes on Saturday against Port Melbourne at Preston City Oval, in the club’s first home game of 2016.
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