John Barnes return to senior footy last weekend in the Essendon VFL side doesn't get much better. The side convincingly defeated the Bendigo Diggers by 103-points. Barnes played the majority of the match in the forward pocket and although his statistics weren't over flattering - he had two kicks and two handballs - his presence on the ground was enough to lift his teammates. ""I have pulled up a little bit sore today but that is expected. I have played three games for Melton this year but the pace of the VFL is a lot quicker. It was great to be out there playing for the black and red again,"" Barnes said.

The VFL side were impressive yesterday, led by Jordan Bannister and captain Josh Mahoney. Bannister dominated on the wing and half-forward, kicking eight goals. Barnes says the performance of 2001 draftee Simon O'Keefe in the ruck showed positive signs for the team. ""Simon rucked exceptionally well in the second half. I have not seen him play that well before. He positioned himself around the ground well and took some solid grabs. Overall the side could not play much better,"" Barnes said.