But now the former Panther is a Tiger.

The skilled goal-attack played three quarters in her debut game for Albury against Wangaratta Rovers, shooting 19 goals.

It marked her first Ovens and Murray netball appearance since rupturing her Achilles tendon against Yarrawonga during round 14 of the 2019 season.

Albury coach Sarah Moore admitted it was exciting to finally see Hillier in yellow and black.

"Obviously it's been a long time for her, but she didn't look like she missed a beat," Moore said.

"She just came out firing.

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"She's one of the smartest players in the O and M and it's evident when she hits the court.

"She directs the play and sets the tempo for our attacking end and she's a massive asset for our team."

Hillier looks set to take it week by week, but Moore hopes to have her as a consistent player this season.

"It was really nice to see her out there looking like she had never walked away from the game," Moore said.

Albury found themselves locked in a tight fourth quarter battle on Easter Saturday, with the Rovers running away by three goals at the final whistle.

Moore admitted the new-look Tigers are still finding their feet as they work with new combinations.

"I'm looking forward to how they progress throughout the season, because there certainly is some very talented young ladies in there," she said.

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