South Adelaide ruckman Keegan Brooksby wins best and fairest

FIRST-TIME Knuckey Cup winner Keegan Brooksby says South Adelaide is ready to go a step further in 2015.

FIRST-TIME Knuckey Cup winner Keegan Brooksby says South Adelaide is ready to go a step further in 2015.

The 24-year-old won the club’s best and fairest with 137 votes on Saturday night, edging out midfielder Joel Cross by two votes.

Brooksby said the club was hungry for success after finishing fourth this year.

“The challenge of going better and going further in 2015 is something all of the boys and the club wants to achieve,” he said.

“We had a couple of down weeks in the middle of the season and missed out on the double chance.

“We’ve learnt a lot and we’ll be taking all of that on board and doing whatever we can to put ourselves in the best position for next year.”

The 197cm ruckman, who was recruited from basketball in 2008, was an ever-present for South this year.

“I thought I was pretty consistent and that’s what I try to achieve week in, week out,” Brooksby said.

“I knew the votes were going to be close and Joel had an outstanding year.

“It’s great to be recognised for all the hard work you put in.”

Midfielder Brent Macleod finished third in the best and fairest with 129 votes.

Jake Veide picked up most improved and Brett Eddy won leading goalkicker with 67 majors.

Adam Gulden was awarded the best first-year player trophy and Xavier Gotch received the Knuckles Award for best defender.

Cross also took home the best in finals award and the players’ player gong.

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