Rugby: Goudie aims to play on for 250 games

The former under-20 and clubs’ internationalist – he made four appearances for each side – has also racked up a remarkable 65 tries for the club he joined five seasons ago from Dundee High.

Says Goudie, a qualified doctor: “I’d love to think I could go on and play another 125 games for Heriot’s after getting off to a good start.

“In my first year Heriot’s won the Scottish Cup and finished second in the league and that helped me to score 20 tries.

“It was through knowing previous Heriot’s coach Bob McKillop at Scotland under-20s that I found my way to Goldenacre on arriving in Edinburgh to study.

“Subsequently it was been a bit of a home from home with other ex-Dundee players such as Scott Burnett, Alan Dymock and Robert Gray pitching up.

“I was also friends with Jonny Alston from earlier rugby and Ian Nimmo returning to Heriot’s after a spell at Leicester meant another familiar face when I joined.

“I suppose playing either wing or full back opens up try-scoring opportunities and the way Heriot’s play the ball is always going to get to the wider parts of the pitch.

“In the last couple of seasons I’ve had to do some switching off shifts (he currently specialises in geriatric care at Edinburgh Royal Infirmary) but, who knows, maybe I can get closer to the likes of skipper Graham Wilson (currently 165), Stewart Mustard and Marc Teague in terms of appearances.”

Heriot’s encounter Stirling County at Goldenacre tomorrow and Goudie is aiming for a quick bounce back from the disappointing opening-day  defeat at Gala.

“Gala was really quite frustrating for us. In the first half we did well and were competing effectively. Then in a 10-15 minute spell we gave away too many penalties and teams like Gala really seize those chances.

“They grind you down and take advantage of any mistakes.

“However, we have looked at a video which has thrown up a number of positives which is helpful as we expect Stirling to play in a similar way to Gala this weekend. Certainly nobody is reading too much into the opening day result.

“Everybody has bought into the teachings of new coaches Phil Smith and Steve Lawrie and the aim is to really kick start the season against Stirling tomorrow,” said Goudie who was part of an outstanding Dundee High school team which also included subsequent Scotland internationalist Richie Vernon.