Richmond's 2017 premiership defender Alex Rance made a comeback in Essendon's four-point loss to ladder leaders Southport.

He was joined by Wangaratta's Morris Medal fancy Abraham Ankers and Wangaratta Rovers rugged Tyler Cornish, along with former Myrtleford star Christian Burgess.

It was the five-time All-Australian's first game since he retired after the 2019 grand final, where he missed the Tigers' flag after undergoing a knee reconstruction following round one.

Rance claimed 18 disposals and four marks, but immediately declared it was just a one-off as he was visiting family on the Gold Coast.

The 31-year-old is still friends with Essendon's AFL coach Ben Rutten, who was Richmond's backline mentor from 2014-2018.

The Bombers' reserves side had only 10 AFL-listed players as the club is temporarily based in Queensland.

Given the O and M season is currently on hold due to COVID, the hit-out was ideal for regular midfielders Ankers and Cornish.

"I haven't played for five weeks, so it was just what I needed," Cornish suggested.

Cornish, who used to play for Southport and is great friends with the bulk of his opponents, impressed with 27 touches, while Ankers kicked a goal.

"Ab played really well, he almost kicked the winner, but it bounced and hit the post," Cornish revealed.

The chance to play alongside Rance was a special moment for all the Bombers.

ALSO IN SPORT:

"I played down back with Alex and I learnt some good one-on-one lessons, just in general, the way he goes about it," Cornish explained.

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content: