He might only be two games into his long-awaited return but classy West Coast goalsneak Willie Rioli hasn’t missed a beat, and his heroics against North Melbourne almost inspired the Eagles to an upset victory.

With the forward line again missing some big names – including spearhead Josh Kennedy – the Eagles needed to find avenues to goal and Rioli delivered a sparkling four-goal, 18-disposal effort on cue.

Going into the match with 14 changes, there was uncertainty how West Coast would respond to a turbulent few days, but nerves settled when Rioli chased down Liam Ryan’s pass, shimmied away from opponent Aaron Hall and rolled through a delightful checkside for the opening goal.

Then, when the Roos threatened to break away with a 13-point lead at the first change, it was the 26-year-old who bobbed up out of nowhere to intercept and snap over his shoulder in one motion to reclaim the momentum.

A pair of accurate set shots in the third quarter kept the Eagles within touching distance and ensured a career-best outing in front of goal for the 2018 premiership jet, whose silky skills and toughness have been welcomed additions back into Adam Simpson’s team.

In two games back, Rioli has kicked five goals, had 31 disposals, 17 contested possessions and also won nine clearances reinforcing a depleted engine room with his outstanding stoppage craft.