KURT Tippett has made an encouraging return to football with the Sydney Swans reserves, showing good touch and kicking three goals in a big win over Gold Coast at the SCG.

Tippett hadn't played since last year's semi-final victory over Carlton, undertaking a carefully managed recovery from knee tendinitis.

After a seven-month lay-off, the Swans’ coaching staff decided to bring him back through the seconds, rather than throwing him straight into the seniors' important game against Fremantle later on Saturday.

He only played the first half and was seen with a small wrap on his knee afterwards and, provided he pulls up well, Tippett's performance indicates this will be his only appearance in the seconds.

The imposing key forward kicked two first-quarter goals, including a set shot from around 35m and another from the top of the goalsquare following a strong grab.

He also took four marks in the first term.

Tippett then got on the end of a handball over the top in the second quarter for his third goal before putting the cue in the rack and sitting out the second half.

Gary Rohan was also playing in the seconds after he was dropped this week to find some touch and he showed some good signs off half-back and when he pushed forward.

Ryan O'Keefe was the other high profile Swan left out of the seniors this week, but the Norm Smith medallist didn't play in the reserves, instead kept as the side's non-playing emergency.