CAIRNS, Mark Henry
25.09.1969, Edinburgh
Goalkeeper. Started his career at Gala Fairydean before signing for Heart of Midlothian in 1988. He failed to force his way into the Jambos first team and following loan spells with Berwick Rangers and East Stirlingshire returned to Gala Fairydean in 1990. Season 1994-95 saw Mark still with Gala Fairydean despite interest from league side’s including a pre-season trial with Kilmarnock in 1992. Thistle manager John Lambie brought him to Firhill in October 1994 for a fee of £12,000 after regular keeper Andy Murdoch handed in his notice to join Strathclyde Police. His time at Firhill was spent mostly as reserve to Scotland squad keeper Nicky Walker. After relegation from the Premier league and Walker’s departure to Aberdeen, Cairns found himself 1st choice keeper at Firhill, but poor form and injury seen him again reserve to new arrival John Hillcoat. He was released in a mass clearout in 1997 and joined Alloa Athletic for a four season spell, followed by stops at Brechin City, Queen’s Park, Bo’ness United, Arbroath and back to Queen’s Park.
· 1997-98 3rd Division Winner, Alloa Athletic
· 1999-00 League Challenge Cup Winner, Alloa Athletic
· 2001-02 3rd Division Winner, Brechin City