Kane Lambert’s form first-up from a spell was a big plus for Richmond in last night’s narrow loss to West Coast at Optus Stadium.

The triple premiership Tiger, who returned to the line-up after missing six games due to a calf injury, produced a top-class performance in his midfield/high half-forward role.

He finished the match with a team-high 27 disposals, three inside-50s, three rebound-50s, three tackles, four intercepts, two goals, six score involvements and 280 metres gained.

Richmond coach Damien Hardwick was rapt with Lambert’s return.

“It was good. We got Dion (Prestia) back last week and lost him this week, but then we get Kane back. So that was a real positive,” Hardwick said in his post-match press conference.

“He took some really good steps forward tonight.

“Will obviously be a little bit short of a gallop, but he’ll get better over the break. And he’ll attack the second half of the year with vigour, I’d imagine.”