Exciting West Coast Eagles Jack Petruccelle and Nathan Vardy made successful comebacks from injury via the WAFL on Saturday but their presence was not enough to propel East Perth to victory over Swan Districts.

Petruccelle starred in his first game since suffering an ankle injury during West Coast’s round seven clash with Port Adelaide at Optus Stadium.

The livewire small forward amassed 14 possessions – 10 of which were contested – and booted three goals in an eye-catching display that could put him in the selection frame for the Eagles’ Saturday night clash with St Kilda.

Vardy did not wield his usual influence on the contest but still managed to win 20 hit outs and kick a goal in his return match.

East Perth got off to a fast start thanks to Petruccelle, who booted a crafty goal within the opening minutes of the contest, but as the rain started to fall Swan Districts took to the conditions like ducks to water.

The visiting side simplified its ball movement after the half-time break and booted four unanswered goals in the third term to extend their advantage to 37 points.

The Royals finally found their groove in the fourth quarter and kicked six goals to the Swans’ two in the fnal stanza.

But it was a case of too little too late as the Black Ducks prevailed 13.8 (86) to 11.7 (73).

Midfielder Luke Partington toiled manfully to win a game-high 32 disposals, defender Francis Watson amassed 21 touches, 10 contested possessions and five tackles, while fellow backman Oscar Allen impressed with 17 disposals, six rebound 50s and four contested marks.

Jackson Nelson was East Perth’s most efficient ball user on the day.

The daring half-back hit a target with 15 of his 16 disposals in the most trying conditions. He also reeled in six marks and pushed up the ground to launch the ball inside the Royals’ attacking 50 on four occasions.

Matthew Allen continued his good run of form up forward with two goals, while onballers Kurt Mutimer and Tarir Bayok each accumulated 17 disposals.