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BLIND, STUPID AND DESPERATE
 
02/03: Review:
"A dream has become reality"
By Martin Patching
First published in the Hemel Hempstead Gazette, 08/05/03

Several weeks ago, Scott Fitzgerald had an everyday job, played non-league football and enjoyed Friday nights out with his mates. Much has changed in the 23-year-old's life and Scott admits that his head is still spinning after signing a professional contract at Vicarage Road.

Scott initialy impressed during a trial game played against Rushden and Diamonds back in February. Within 24 hours after scoring in the 2-1 win Scott was offered terms. Having previously been overlooked by Chelsea, also in a trial match, The Hornets stepped in with a two year deal.

It is "Roy of the Rovers" material and against Sheffield United last Saturday Fitzgerald scored in his first full senior game for Watford.

"I've got to keep a level head and get used to training every day. My goal was always to be a professional footballer. I've achieved that now, so my goal is to make it into the first team and get a regular place."

Scott's second half display was full of confidence and the goal, just reward for a sound performance. The striker hit 29 goals for Northwood before joining Ray Lewington's squad but they must have paled into insignificance when his first goal in a yellow shirt sealed the points for Watford.

With a bit more composure and luck, Scott may have scored earlier in what was a good finish to the season. The first half was a typical end of season affair, but The Hornets picked up the tempo in the second period to record a league double over the Blades.

Coming out of non-league football into the professional game happens less and less these days and comparisons are bound to be drawn between the new front man and former Hornet Kevin Phillips, who joined from Baldock Town.

"It's not the most straightforward way to get into the game, but it's the way I've come and perhaps it means I can appreciate the opportunity I've been given more than most," said Fitzgerald. "I've done a nine to five job ever since I left school, so Im really appreciating training each day and being paid to do something I love."

All very refreshing and a far cry from some players moans and groans about too many fixtures or a mid-season break.

Scott's dream has become reality and from what I have seen and heard from reserve team manager Nigel Gibbs with Scott's eagerness to learn he has a bright future.

FLASHBACK

In the charts:
True by Spandau Ballet

Football League Division One
Watford 2 Liverpool 1
Team: Sherwood. Rice, Sims, Franklin, Rostron. Callaghan, Patching, Jackett, Sterling. Blissett, Barnes.
Sub: Lohman
Scorers: Blissett and Patching
27,173

Reproduced courtesy of Gazette Newspapers