East Perth senior coach Luke Webster says a trio of experienced Eagles are showing signs of returning to their best form.

Webster said on-ball bull Dom Sheed and established defenders Eric Mackenzie and Will Schofield were among the Royals’ best during the team’s 36-point defeat to Claremont last Friday.

Sheed collected a game-high 36 touches against the Tigers, amassed 15 contested possessions, eight inside 50 entries and laid eight effective tackles.

“It’s always good to have a good quality mid like Dom coming back,” Webster said.

“He showed really good leadership with our young group that is there. He worked really hard in and around the contest, won a heap of the footy and got the ball going our way. He hit the scoreboard as well, which was pleasing to see.”

Mackenzie was also a force to be reckoned with at Leederville Oval.

The 2014 John Worsfold medallist gathered 20 possessions, reeled in 12 marks and effected 11 spoils under duress against the Tigers.

Webster said he was particularly impressed with Mackenzie’s calm under pressure. The 28-year-old distributed the ball at 90 per cent efficiency from full back.

“Ezy was really good,” Webster said.

“He defended the ball really well and pretty much won every contest he was in. He created some delay for us which was really pleasing to see.

“He was also really predictable with ball in hand, used the ball well and set up some good plays for us.”

Schofield again played the role of defence sergeant for the Royals as he barked orders to his back line troops throughout the evening.

In addition to his valued guidance and leadership, the athletic half back collected 19 disposals and stuck five effective tackles.

“The way we structured up with Schoey down back was really good,” Webster said.

“Like Ezy, he defended the ball really well.

“Also what he’s giving us is good run and drive off half back. He used the ball really well and hit the scoreboard at the weekend too.”