Want to know more about Edinburgh’s Heineken Cup hero, Mark Robertson? The winger who scored that famous try on French soil sheds some light on what makes him tick in this week’s First XV Q & A.
The Borderer (pictured with Kyle Traynor) talks about the late King of Pop, trips to Disneyworld, facing Fijians and wrestling Roddy Grant.
Remember Mark has already shown his commitment to the Edinburgh cause by signing a new contract and now it is your turn to pledge your future to the Black and Red Army. Season Tickets for the 2009/2010 campaign are now available (for more details click here). Top class rugby at a great value price – call 0131 346 5180 now and become part of a team to be proud of.
First club you ever played for?
The mighty ‘Rose (Melrose). I think I was about six or seven when I started playing for them and I finished playing with them when I joined the Borders at the age of 21.
First position you ever played in?
Stand off. I then played in the centre from when I was 16 through to 19 and then I became a winger.
First time you thought you would play professional rugby?
Probably when I was 20. I was quite a late developer and then physically I became a lot faster and stronger. I started scoring quite a lot of tries in Premier One and thought if I continued working hard playing professionally was something within my grasp.
What was your most memorable try?
Probably the try against Castres or the one against South Africa in the 7s when we beat them for the first time.
Who has been your most difficult opponent?
Willie Ryder from the Fiji 7s team. He was difficult to tackle because he was always stepping.
What is your greatest ever achievement?
In rugby, it was beating South Africa in the 7s and helping Edinburgh to achieve their first Heineken Cup win in France.
Where was your greatest ever holiday?
When I was younger I went away with my folks to Australia and had a little break at Disneyworld in Florida. As a kid, Disneyworld was pretty awesome.
What is the greatest film you’ve ever seen?
The film I enjoy the most is probably The Matrix
Last CD or download you bought?
The last download was Michael Jackson: Billie Jean.
What is your favourite ever CD?
Probably Rocky: The Soundtrack
Best stadium you have ever played in?
Wellington: The Caketin. That was pretty awesome. Everyone was in fancy dress and there was a great atmosphere.
Best aspect about living in Edinburgh?
My one-on-one wrestling sessions with Rodders (Roddy Grant) which I normally win with a sleeper hold!
Who has been the biggest influence on your career so far?
Definitely my old man (Grand Slam winner Keith Robertson)
What is your main hobby away from rugby?
I play quite a bit of golf
Who is the worst dressed player at Edinburgh?
From what I’ve seen so far, Tim Visser. He was wearing some horrific brown jogging bottoms.
