Alex Browne is one step closer to an AFL comeback after making a successful return for Essendon’s VFL side. 

The Bombers won every quarter on their way to a 42-point win against Richmond last Saturday.

Browne was just happy to be on the park again.

“I’ve pulled up really well after a couple of days,” he said.

“It was good fun. It was fast and all a bit loud early on, but I settled into the game nicely.

“I felt like I was running a bit too fast at the start, but slowly eased my way into the game and played three quarters and got through, which is the main thing.”

Browne lined up alongside Elliott Kavanagh who gathered 25 possessions and kicked three goals in an impressive display.

Irish recruit Conor McKenna also played well booting three goals including a dribbling effort from the boundary.

Browne and his VFL teammates continue their preparation for the season with a practice match against Geelong on Saturday.

“Everything is going to change now, I’ve got to put a lot more effort into recovery and preparation.

“I’ll slowly increase my game time­– I’ll play a full game next week­– then it’s just about trying to get some form now and crack into the (AFL) team.”

Final scores: 


Essendon – 18.13. 121

Richmond - 11.13. 79

Goals:

Essendon: Kavanagh 3, McKenna 3, Hardingham 2, McKernan 2, Hams, Coghlan, Edwards, Merrett, Fantasia, Laverde, Giles, Tagliabue.

Richmond: Petterd 2, Lennon 2, Butler 2, Lambert, McDonough, Short, McBean, Gleeson.