High-flying Smith rues missing out on hat-trick

Darren Smith took his tally for the season to four goals thanks to a double in the 4-0 win over Berwick Rangers but admits he should have bagged a hat-trick.

The ex-Motherwell man struck twice in the first half, with the opening goal a spectacular effort, but he had a header saved by Robbie McCrorie then nodded over from close range in the second half.

The frontman said:“I’m so disappointed because I should have scored both the headers. Heading has never been my strongest point but they were easy chances and it has cost me a hat-trick!

“Ross Kavanagh did really well to win the ball back for my first goal and he has played me in. I cut inside and hit it – the ball sat up nicely and it just flew right up in the top corner. I’m delighted to score for the second week in a row and the second one came about because of the quality and awareness of Peter MacDonald – you can make runs and you know he will pick you out.”

Smith says spirits in the camp are high and believes the heavy defeat at Falkirk on matchday one of the Betfred Cup last month may have been a blessing in disguise.

He said:“Since we came back for pre-season there has been a really good buzz about the place. All the boys want to achieve – the players are hungry to win something.

“Only a few members of the squad have won something and they have said how good that is so we have the hunger. It shows on the pitch that everyone is pulling in the same direction.

“I think we are starting to build some momentum and that is positive. The Falkirk game gave us the kick up the backside that we maybe needed.

“We had played a couple of pre-season friendlies and we looked good and perhaps thought we could turn up at Falkirk and pop the ball about but they gave us a real lesson.

“It finished 4-1 that day but it could have been 10. They ran over the top of us and we had some words after that.

“I think everyone realised that we needed to work harder and do the dirty things right first and then go on and play.

“We’re on a roll and we want to keep it going. It’s amazing what a few victories does to a place. Everyone is excited and wants on the ball – people are doing things better and it’s a nice atmosphere to be in.”