RETURNING West Coast forward Mark LeCras pulled up well from his first match in more than 17 months with coach John Worsfold rapt with the sharpshooter's performance in Saturday night's NAB Cup clash against Geelong.
 
LeCras, who ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee 12 months ago and has not played since September 2011, returned in style against the Cats at Patersons Stadium before being rested for the Eagles' second shortened match against Fremantle.
 
The 2010 club champion kicked a trademark checkside goal from the same pocket that he suffered the devastating knee injury in and had a smile on his face post-match, according to Worsfold.
 
"I think he's rapt. He was just keen to get it all going again," Worsfold said.
 
"His pre-season's been outstanding so it was just good to know he's up and going again.
 
"He had a smile on his face after the game, so I'd say he's pulled up well."
 
Worsfold said LeCras' plan for the rest of the pre-season would now be mapped out, but it was possible he could play just one more match ahead of round one as the Eagles look to manage game time.
 
While LeCras made a triumphant return, key forward Josh Kennedy didn't play in either match on Saturday after tweaking an ankle at training on Wednesday.   
 
"He could have played, but if he played he might have carried a bit of soreness with his ankle the next week," Worsfold said.
 
The coach was pleased with Collingwood recruit Sharrod Wellingham, who was impressive in the midfield with eight disposals against Geelong before being rested against Fremantle.
 
"[It was a] short hit-out for him, but he showed why we picked him," Worsfold said.
 
"We know why we've got him here and what role he's going to play and he did it well."
 
Nathan Schmook is a reporter for AFL Media. Follow him on Twitter: @AFL_Nathan