Big ruckman Matthew Dennis keen to play a major role in getting Palmerston back into the finals

Will Matthew Dennis and the Palmerston Magpies be a part of the 2020-21 NTFL finals?

Ruckman Matthew Dennis is back for a full season with the Palmerston Magpies. Picture: Glenn Campbell

MATTHEW Dennis is on a football mission when he resumes his NTFL career with the Palmerston Magpies.

The 34-year-old ruckman will pull on the black and white vertical stripes for his ninth season in the Top End and he wants to play in the finals.

Dennis has rejected approaches from other clubs to continue his Palmerston career, a decision that had nothing to do with money.

“It wasn’t a financial thing for me, it’s about where I’m at being 34 years of age and what I want to get out of my football,’’ he said.

“I’ve done so much in my career and now I’ve got the opportunity to stay at a club where we haven’t had any success and I want to push myself to make that happen.’’

Dennis has thought about playing under a new coach with new ideas with some great players around him.

“Along with that is only a small window of opportunity for club success remains and I know I can’t play this game forever,’’ he said.

“Those sort of things rolled through my head, but I think I’ve made the right choice by staying at Palmerston.

“Having said that I’d hate to finish up here and not have some form of team success, that would be disappointing.’’

Dennis completes his COVID-19 quarantine period next week after moving his family north.

“This time next week I’ll be able to start training and it will be a big relief,’’ he said..

“I’ve had plenty of time off, having only played those four games last year and missing the entire season in Melbourne.

“I’ve gotten over my injuries a bit more and I’m feeling pretty good and ready to go.

“I’m probably as motivated as I’ve ever been for a football season to get started.’’

Dennis has kept an eye on the comings and going at the Magpies in the off season, particularly names like Chris Williams and Daniel Stafford.

“They’re also going to put a lot of time into getting more games from their younger players, while building a good culture at the club,’’ he said.

“From all reports they’re expecting some big improvements on last year, so I’m looking forward to getting down to training.

“It’s season No.9 for me and we haven’t played finals, so I’m really hoping this is going to be the year and we’ve got a side that can push to get there.’’