WHEN Brent Moloney completed his first season with Melbourne in 2005, he had 21 matches and a fourth placing in the club's best-and-fairest award next to his name.

It was a fine return, after Geelong somewhat reluctantly traded Moloney to the Demons in a deal that eventually lured Brad Ottens to the Cats. Moloney had impressed the Cats with 23 matches in 2003-04 and a NAB AFL Rising Star nomination in 2004.

But since 2006, it hasn't been all smooth sailing for man affectionately known as 'Beamer'. Moloney has played 25 matches in the past three seasons, with groin and shoulder injuries forcing him on the sidelines for much of that period.

Last week, though, Moloney was back in the red and blue, playing with pride for the team he supported as a kid. His 29 disposals in his first match since round 11 last year when injury halted his year was a top effort, especially considering the caution with which he approached the match.

"There was a little bit of an unknown factor about playing," Moloney told melbournefc.com.au.

"There was a bit of: 'Am I still up to it?', but playing the game on the weekend has given me confidence to play at this level and contribute to the team."

Still, the tough-as-teak midfielder said going into the match injury-free gave him the belief he needed to return at the top level.

"In the past, leading into round one, I've been trying to catch up in February, because I haven't had full pre-seasons. This year, I've got full confidence in my body because I've done all the work," Moloney said.

"I went into the match pretty relaxed and focused on my role. That helped a lot."

"There is nothing more I like than pulling on the Melbourne jumper. I've missed a lot of games over the last couple of years and you realise how much you miss it, when you're watching it in the stands. I want to take every opportunity I can get."

Despite his injury setbacks in recent years, Moloney has developed into one of the genuine leaders at Melbourne and was reinstated into the leadership group, after his mid-season elevation in 2008.

"I don't try and be a leader, but I just try and do my job and help other guys out. If I'm helping other guys out, then I'm getting better as well. That's the way I see things," he said.

"I don't try and be someone I'm not. I just want this club to grow and get better.

"The guys want to learn and they want to take everything in. They listen to you and I really enjoy it. The guys in the leadership group are a good, strong group and we're very close, so that helps as well."