Nairn man Mackenzie won’t be taking foot off gas for Preston game
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A BREAK from league action does not mean Nairn County will be taking their eye off the ball.
Nairn host Lowland League side Preston Athletic at Station Park tomorrow and for Stephen Mackenzie, it is a chance to pick up some much-needed momentum, rather than looking to play without pressure.
They have picked up just one win so far this season, away at Keith, and are desperate to give their home fans something to cheer about.
The arrival of Preston Athletic has probably come at a good time, given that they sit bottom of the Lowland League and like Nairn, have struggled to pick up results. They were beaten in the Scottish Cup last year by Highland League side Fort William and Ronnie Sharp’s side will fancy their chances of progressing.
However, there will be no relenting from Mackenzie just because Highland League business is being put to one side for the weekend.
"We have had a difficult start to the season, in some games we haven’t performed to the way we know we can and others we have played really well and have been so close to picking up some really good results," he said. "I wouldn’t say it’s a welcome break because we know it’s going to be another tough game. The teams from the Lowland League are always very good, so we will need to be at the top of our game if we want to come away with a good result against Preston Athletic. As a team we want to win every game. We haven’t picked up any points at home in the league so far, so we are desperate to do well this weekend and hopefully get into the next round of the cup.
"Cup runs are always good, it gives everyone a confidence boost and there is always a good buzz surrounding the club when you’re on one. I don’t really think it matters too much who you are playing – yes if it was a team from the Highland League you know roughly who you will line up against but it’s a cup game so anything can happen."
For the former Clach man it has been a case of rediscovering his love for the game, after injury curtailed his time at Grant Street Park. He was part of the successful side that won the Highland League Cup in 2014, joining the Lilywhites after his release from Caley Thistle.
The versatile defender, who has been deployed in midfielder by Sharp, is relishing his second chance at Highland League football and credits his new boss in persuading him to sign on.
"I’ve really enjoyed being back training and playing again. I feel like I’m getting back to full fitness and I’m relishing the chance of playing for this club," said Mackenzie. "You are treated so well by everyone involved at the club and the facilities are excellent.
"It was really frustrating (at Clach) because it was at a time in my career when I really needed to be playing as many games as I could to gain experience. But I’m really happy where I find myself now, playing for a great young team with an exciting future ahead of us.
"I knew a few of the boys already and I knew the facilities were excellent. As soon as I spoke with Sharpie, he outlined how he wanted the team to train and play, I was immediately very keen to sign up. The training is well structured and everyone works hard and gives everything in training, which makes a big difference."
Callum Maclean should return for the Wee County after coming back off holiday, but skipper Wayne Mackintosh remains sidelined with a knee injury.
