Stuart Smith and Bryan Hay reflect on their careers as they aim for silverware
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As the Aberdeenshire Shield final approaches, two seasoned players, Stuart Smith of Formartine United and Bryan Hay of Fraserburgh, find themselves reflecting on their careers and the fleeting nature of success in football. Both players are eager to seize the opportunity to add another trophy to their collections, knowing that their chances may be limited as they approach the twilight of their careers.
Stuart Smith’s journey with Formartine United
Stuart Smith, a stalwart defender for Formartine United, is gearing up for his 14th season with the club. Over the years, he has played a pivotal role in securing two Evening Express Aberdeenshire Cup victories, as well as triumphs in the R Davidson (Banchory) Highland League Cup and the Aberdeenshire Shield.
At 35, Smith acknowledges that this could be his last chance to lift silverware, making the upcoming final all the more significant.
“At this stage in my career, this could be my last final, so I want to enjoy it as much as possible and try to win,” Smith stated. He reflects on how, with age, the appreciation for success deepens. “When you’re younger, you take it for granted a bit more, but as you get older, you realize how special these moments are.” His sentiment resonates with many athletes who understand that opportunities to compete for titles are not guaranteed.
Fraserburgh’s Bryan Hay and the quest for more trophies
On the other side of the pitch, Bryan Hay, a veteran of Fraserburgh, is closing in on 600 appearances since making his debut in December 2006. Throughout his career, Hay has helped the Broch secure the Aberdeenshire Shield four times, among other accolades. At 35, he shares Smith’s urgency to capitalize on the present moment. “You don’t know how long you’ve got left or how many more chances you might get to win things,” Hay remarked.
Fraserburgh’s current league position may not reflect their aspirations, as they sit sixth in the table. However, Hay believes that their cup successes are crucial, especially given their league struggles. “The league campaign hasn’t quite gone to plan for us this season, so being in a cup final is very important,” he added. The pressure to perform in the final is palpable, as both teams aim to secure a victory that could define their seasons.
The significance of the final for both clubs
This final marks a significant moment for Formartine United, who have not reached a final since September 2022. Smith emphasized the importance of winning, stating, “It’s good to be here, but ultimately it’s about winning. You don’t enjoy finals if you don’t get the result.” The desire to bring home a trophy is not just for personal glory but also for the club and its supporters, many of whom have stood by through thick and thin.
For Fraserburgh’s manager, Mark Cowie, the final represents a chance to add to his impressive trophy haul. Having been at the helm for nearly a decade, Cowie is keen to instill a sense of urgency in his players. “You’re a long time finished once you stop playing, and I encourage my players to not get tired of trying to win trophies,” he said. The legacy of success is something both clubs strive to maintain, and this final could be a pivotal moment in their respective histories.
Looking ahead to the final
As the teams prepare for the showdown at Turriff United’s Haughs, both Smith and Hay are acutely aware of the stakes involved. The match is not just a game; it’s a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and a shared passion for football. With both players eager to leave their mark, the Aberdeenshire Shield final promises to be a thrilling encounter that highlights the enduring spirit of veteran athletes.
