North Melbourne coach Brett Ratten has praised troubled utility Tarryn Thomas’ “classy” return to AFL motion within the Kangaroos’ gut-wrenching defeat to Essendon.
Thomas’ profession hung within the steadiness when he was stood down by the membership for a second time in March amid issues over his behaviour in the direction of ladies.
The 23-year-old was put via a respect and duty training program and spent three weeks within the VFL earlier than incomes a senior recall.
On Sunday at Marvel Stadium, he had 17 disposals, laid 5 tackles and kicked a intelligent aim towards the Bombers however could not save North from a six-point loss.
“What he did was classy in the game,” Ratten stated.
“When the ball’s in his hand we keep the footy and he’s quite electric.
“He’ll be higher for the run nevertheless it was good to get him again into senior footy and be part of the group and play. He did job.”
Thomas had not played an AFL game since round 15 last year but Ratten did not see many signs of nerves in the build-up.
“We did not discuss it a heap however I believe he was simply pleased to be taking part in,” Ratten said.
Thomas initially returned to North Melbourne through their VFL program and only rejoined AFL training last month.
He had to prove to club leaders he was ready to return to senior football through his actions on and off the field.
“He’s been good. He’s attempting to do his extras and attempting to enhance as a participant,” Ratten stated.
“The second-tier group have actually led from the entrance in that area and he is been part of that, which has been nice.”
North Melbourne pushed Essendon right to the wire despite losing senior midfielders Jy Simpkin and Hugh Greenwood to concussion by half-time.
The pair will miss the conflict with GWS in Hobart in spherical 13 because the second-from-bottom Kangaroos (2-10) try to snap a 10-match shedding streak.
Source: www.perthnow.com.au
