Koroit midfield general Brett Harrington is readying himself for a key role in his team's pursuit of a seventh consecutive Hampden league flag.
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A former captain and 2018 Maskell Medalist, Harrington has had an interrupted 2021 season.
As well as three weeks off due to COVID lockdowns, Harrington missed the Saints round three game against Terang Mortlake with injury.
Known for his strong work ethic, Harrington entered the season without his usual thorough preparation.
"I had a back injury so I didn't train from the end of January until two weeks before the first game," Harrington told the Moyne Gazette.
"I hurt my knee in the first game against South and I cracked by ribs against North and had a bit of a hammy so it's been hard to get momentum, especially when you throw in the games we have missed with COVID.
"My form has been a bit up and down, the game against Warrnambool was better and then against Portland I was able to carry it on but unfortunately the brakes have gone back on."
Despite the challenges of the season so far, Harrington has not lost any enthusiasm for the task at hand.
The 31-year-old is eager to keep contributing to the Saints march towards finals.
"My role hasn't changed a lot over the last few years," Harrington said.
"It is about getting us going in the middle, with myself and Liam Hoy we have to lead the way in winning the ball at the stoppages.
"We have some younger guys in there this year so it's important we work closely with them. The motivation is still there personally and as a group to go as far as we can."
Koroit has a 9-1 record after the first 10 rounds.
The Saints scheduled round 11 game with Terang Mortlake last Saturday was abandoned when Victoria was sent into a COVID lockdown on Friday.
Again plans for the 2021 season's progression hurt a hurdle on Tuesday when the state government extended the lockdown for at least another seven days.
Koroit was to host Cobden on Saturday. The earliest the Saints could be back on the field would be on July 31 when they are drawn to play South Warrnambool.