Veteran midfielder Adam Cooney worked hard in his first run for 2016.

As one of the team’s most senior players in the line-up against the Cats, Cooney showed his class in-and-around the stoppages, proving to be deadly when he had the ball in hand.

Although it was a disappointing day out for the Dons,  Cooney worked hard to collect 15 disposals, lay two tackles and take one mark.

The numbers produced by Cooney, however, do not represent the importance that the ex-Bulldog has or will have during the 2016 season.

Coach John Worsfold praised Cooney’s return following the game, stating that he provided the maturity that the younger group needed on the day. 

“I don’t think he’s got much to prove, but he has a lot to give,” said Worsfold 

“I’m rapt to have the opportunity to have him on our list this year and I can’t fault what he’s done in his preparation to get himself ready to go. 

“As the real mature midfielder out there today, I thought he lead the way for us.” 

Cooney will look to return strongly from an injury interrupted 2015 season.

The midfielder was unable to find any consistency in his first season at the Bombers, with niggling injuries cutting his season to only 11 games. 

A classy player and much loved around the Club, Cooney has trained well during the pre-season and is in good shape heading into the start of the year.