John Mackenzie in action against Southend United in the FA Cup 2nd Round Replay in December 1979 Born on the 7th February 1954, Mackenzie started his career with Leyton and also played for Leytonstone, Bishop’s Stortford and Ilford. John joined the club in the summer of 1978, linking up again with his former manager Ian Wolstenholme, who had been in charge at Bishop’s Stortford during John’s time with the Blues.
He formed a deadly partnership with Peter Twigg up front and was renowned for his heading ability. However, John will always be remembered for his goals in our FA Cup run of the 1979-80 season. John hit the winner against Leicester City in the 3rd round replay and then went on to score a further two goals in the epic 4th round clash at Watford. All of these goals were scored with his feet, the second at Watford even being featured on the BBC’s Match of the Day’s Goal of the Month competition.
John finished as top scorer in both season 1980-81 and 1981-82 despite being on the transfer list for much of the latter season. He finally left the club in March 1982, joining Boreham Wood before emigrating to South Africa.
During his time with the club John represented the Isthmian League and scored 58 goals in his 141 appearances, 11 of which were as a substitute.
John, its FA Cup weekend and I recalled John Motson's comments on your famous two goals in 79-80.
ReplyDeleteI remember happy days playing with you in the Cyril Jackson junior team.
Charlie Hughes