Anderson played for the Pies in 2014-15 before joining Doutta Stars for a two-year stint.

He’s overcome three shoulder reconstructions, on both shoulders, to become one of the league’s best backmen, deservedly claiming a spot in the interleague team which hammered Western Region to move into the State’s top four.

“It’s what I came here for,” he said.

“The boys have put in a massive amount of work to get back there.”

Anderson’s recruitment was designed to release the flying Mat Grossman and heady Ben Douthie.

For such a big man at 193cms, Anderson’s pace is terrific, hurrying attacking players and forcing mistakes.

Anderson, Michael Bordignon and Dylan Van Berlo form a miserly defence for Sunday’s grand final against Albury.