State league affiliate: Casey Demons (VFL)

This weekend: Geelong v Casey Demons - Saturday, April 29, 1pm, Simonds Stadium

Defender Josh Wagner made an earlier than expected return from a fractured thumb and was named Casey's best player in its 36-point loss.

The 22-year-old was expected to miss a month after having surgery to repair the thumb injury he suffered in a VFL practice match three weeks ago.

Wagner finished with 20 disposals, six marks and six tackles in his return.

Casey coach Justin Plapp told AFL.com.au on Sunday that Wagner emerged unscathed. 

"After a very interrupted 12 weeks with multiple injuries, Wagner looked very sharp, his ball use was very creative and (he provided a) strong aerial contest," Plapp said.

Midfielder Jack Trengove continued his good patch of form with a team-high 29 disposals, while Ben Kennedy (26 disposals, one goal) and Dean Kent (one goal) rounded out the Demons' leaders.