MERBEIN star Josh Carmichael's early season domination of the SFNL has not come by chance.

Magpies co-coach Paddy Irwin was full of praise for the dynamic midfielder's workrate on the training track after he tore apart Sunday's clash against Red Cliffs at Wentworth.

Carmichael kicked three goals and had the ball on a string in a stunning first-half display that blew the contest wide open.

"His ...