Player Focus on Mark Smith

As one of the few remaining players from the very first Fountainbridge team, Mark Smith has certainly seen quite a few faces come and go over the past 2 years. This season especially has seen massive changes in the squad. Mark gives us his views on the current setup; "The current team is a far cry from the team that finished last season and although this year's results haven't gone our way all the time, I genuinley feel that with the current crop we can really improve. There is a real willingness to get the ball down and play football and that's something we have to keep doing if we want to improve. I personally miss Chris and Matty for the off pitch banter and good humour that they brought to the team."

Although he has played the majority of his matches for The Bridge in either a central or wide midfield position, this season has seen Mark fill in as a striker. When asked where his favourite position would be, if given complete freedom of the park, he answers; "Goalkeeper! Actually no, wouldn't want to upstage Strevs! Seriously though, I'm happy anywhere accross the middle of the park - preferably in a more advanced role supporting the attack. I enjoy getting hold of the ball and trying to pick that killer pass, although the pitch and weather conditions never really suit this kind of mentality!"

Season 2008/09 has thus far proved to be a bit of a yoyo one for Fountainbridge, with as many highs as lows. However it has been a definite improvement on last season. Mark gives us his thoughts on his favourite game that he has been involved in for the club.
"Well it's hard not to pick the game I scored 2 goals in, but I will resist the temptation and go with the Scottish Cup game against Glensburgh at Saughton. To take a team of their standing to extra time and nearly nick it was a great example of how far the team had come and a great demonstration of the never say die spirit that still remains in the current side. The other bonus on that day was goo spectator turn out - it would be nice to encourage current squad members to invite family and friends to games to really improve the match day atmosphere."


And on the subject of the early contenders for the award of player of the year this season;
"For me, player of the Season isn't the man who scores all the goals or plays the most games but rather the man who stands up and is counted both on game day and at training. The man who offers constructive critiscism, encouragement and provides the team with a natural leader. Barry certainly ticks all those boxes and is a player that gets respect from all who play alongside him. At this stage he would get my vote as he did last season."

Fountainbridge have put out several formations so far this season, in terms of Mark's opinion on the most effective of these and where he would fit in, he explains; "Although I know the Gaffer loves his 4-5-1 formation, I feel a standard 4-4-2 formation suits us best. The problem John has had with this formation is injuries and having natural replacements to play up top. If we have everyone available, then I think a 4-4-2 with a solid back four & central midfield pairing with pace out wide and a combination of power and finesse up front is the way to go. I am happy to play the David Beckham role!"

Finally we discuss Mark's recent goalscoring heroics,and if he has any personal targets for this season on this front. "First of all, I am delighted to be amongst the goals - especially since I have played every game this season and thought I would never score! You wouldn't believe how jealous i was getting seeing the ball bounce off Barry's knee or backside and in almost every week! I would love to get 10 - but that is being very very very optimistic! If I get one good header and a freekick, then I would finish the season a happy man!"

Other Player Focus
Jonny Mackenzie
Laurie Dunsire
Ian Fleming
Barry Fearn
Keith Alexander