PILGRIMS PROGRESS

Jack left Aberdeen on a high note for new challenge at Plymouth

- BY SCOTT BURNS

JACK MACKENZIE has reversed the trend - and landed his Holy Grail before he became a Pilgrim.

The defender is now preparing to kickoff his new career with Plymouth Argyle.

It comes just weeks after he lifted the Scottish Cup with his boyhood heroes Aberdeen.

MacKenzie's final stand was parading the trophy on an open-top bus round his home city for the first time in 35 years.

The 25-year-old now has a new adventure down south and said: "I always wanted to play in England. I feel if you go down there and it works out then it could be unbelievable.

"I wanted to give it a go and am at the right age - so I'm really looking forward to getting going with Plymouth.

"The time was right. I love Aberdeen and it has been amazing but football is a short career. I had an urge to try something outside of Scotland.

"A new team, country and league. Moving from my home city was a difficult decision but I just felt it was the right one.

"I want to push myself to see how I could kick on."

MacKenzie admits he really did live the dream at Pittodrie.

He said: "I had the most amazing time at Aberdeen. It was a dream come true.

"I joined the club at nine and was there until I was 25. It was amazing and to finish it off with the Scottish Cup win - it was the perfect way to sign off.

"It was my final game for the club and it was another dream come true to end it that way.