Emotional Day For Dons’ Mackie

By Inverness Reds News Staff
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Updated: May 13, 2012

Darren Mackie was wrought with emotion after bringing the curtain down on his Aberdeen career in Saturday’s 0-0 SPL draw with St Mirren.

Mackie joined Aberdeen straight from school and, at the age of 30, is searching for a new employer for the first time after being let go.

Mackie, captaining for the day, saw St Mirren keeper Craig Samson deny him from the game’s best chance after just four minutes, and the hitman was clearly disappointed not to have marked the occasion with a goal.

He said: “It would have been nice to sign off with a goal, but it wasn’t to be. It’s just the way football goes, and I’ve missed easier chances in my time here. It was a great game. Both sides were going for it, and there were chances at either end.”

Mackie paid tribute to the club and the Dons support but accepts that a more successful Aberdeen side would unlock the true potential of the Dons’ fanbase.

“The fans were amazing. They’re unbelievable. They’re right behind you when things are going well, and the boys need to start doing it on the park to get them back in the huge numbers I’m sure would come if they were winning every week. Thanks to them for the reception they gave me today.

“It’s hard to say what I’ll miss most. I’ve loved every minute of it. It’s a great bunch of boys, and the staff here are terrific but life goes on. I’ll need to sort myself out, and wish Aberdeen all the best of luck for the future.”

Dundee have been credited with an interest in Mackie, but the striker will be putting his football future on the back burner for the moment, as family comes first.

“My wife is heavily pregnant, she’s got three weeks to go. That’s the first thing in my head, so once that’s out the way we’ll discuss our plans for the future.

“It’s great to know there’s interest there. I don’t know if it’s just paper talk, but it’s nice to hear whispers that there are teams interested.”