macca flying again

by Mickyj Thu Aug 25, 2011 6:57 pm

http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/sport/afl/macca-flying-again/story-e6freckc-1226120491024

IN CASE anyone with a short memory last year forgot just how good a player Mark McKenzie was, the Eagles skipper is doing a good job of reminding them this season.

After a frustrating 2010 in which he never really got going, McKenzie has rebounded with a brilliant 2011 to lead The Advertiser's SANFL Player of the Year Award.

After Round 20 he has polled 19 votes to be two clear of Norwood's Bryce Campbell and six in front of North's James Allan and South's Joel Cross.

``The big thing for Mark is that in my first year at the club he wasn't able to have a big pre-season,'' Eagles coach Michael Godden said.

``He didn't have a bad season but it wasn't as high as his lofty standards.

``But I could tell from the very first night of this year (pre-season) he wanted to make amends.''

Godden said McKenzie last year needed to get fit and adapt to a more permanent role in defence.

He has since succeeded at both and helped Woodville-West Torrens to third spot on the ladder with three games remaining until finals.