The Murray United export returned to his old stomping ground to take on his former club with Melbourne City's NPL 2 outfit on Saturday.

Lining up at centre back in his second start in the senior squad, Mills handled the occasion well as the sides split the points in an entertaining 2-2 draw.

"It was quite awkward playing against them for the first time," Mills said.

"I realised we were playing against them and did my own thing to prepare for the game as normal."

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Mills was shown a yellow card after he was forced to foul former teammate Lewis Greenwood late in the game to prevent a goal-scoring opportunity.

Given the competitive nature for spots in the A-League club's youth outfit, Mills has been pleased with the way he has handled the transition from Murray this season.

"I've broken my way through to the seniors, which is good," Mills said.

"I'm playing (at centre back) next to the captain Mitch (Graham), who is my roommate as well.

"Unfortunately I didn't get to play against Melbourne Victory in the derby because I was sick."

Mills' goal for the remainder of the NPL 2 season is to continue to earn a starting spot in the lineup and stay there.