Long-term injured players Jack Dorgan and Ben Bese made successful returns to Williamstown’s senior line-up for Saturday night’s big VFL win over Casey Scorpions at Casey Fields.
Both had excruciating spells on the sidelines as they dealt with vastly different ailments.
Dorgan has recovered from a third knee reconstruction, while Bese has endured a serious broken collarbone sustained in last year’s preliminary final.
It was a heartwarming night for the Seagulls as two of their favourites returned to the field and came out of the game unscathed.
Seagulls football manager Chris Dixon said it was great to have the pair back.
“Straight away, you could see what they added to the team,” he said.
Dorgan’s knee issues have failed to break his spirit. Few would have the courage to attempt a fourth comeback. His teammates are keeping their fingers crossed for a clear run, knowing what he has been through.
“His dedication to the cause has been nothing short of sensational,” Dixon said.
“Hopefully, he can kick on now and really get some rewards this year.”
Playing on a wing, Dorgan set up a goal for teammate Sam Dunell and had his own chances to cap a fairytale return with a goal, but finished with 0.3 in the 17.12 (114) – 11.4 (70) win.
Bese was the hard luck story of 2015.
One of the form players of the finals, he missed out on playing in a senior premiership after breaking his collarbone in the preliminary final.
His attack on the football is widely admired in the Seagulls’ nest and he was back at the contests like a dog on a bone against the Scorpions.
“He’s not going to change his style,” Dixon said. “It’s great to have him back.”
