Post by QPR Report on Apr 29, 2009 8:38:55 GMT
From the official Site
BLAST FROM THE PAST - Mark Falco
Posted on: Wed 29 Apr 2009
A string of explosive volleys into the roof of the net illuminated Mark Falco's spell at Queens Park Rangers. Quite simply, he had the knack of scoring in breathtaking fashion.
Falco notched an impressive ratio of 33 goals in 81 starts for the R's. But looking back, he is keen to play down the impact he made.
"When the opportunities came along, I just chanced my arm really," said Falco. "I had a good technique and so I would try the spectacular shots. They seemed to come off quite a bit for me and I was happy when they went in. But I think a few flew over the crossbar as well!
"My favourite goal for QPR was at home to Chelsea in December 1989 when we beat them 4-2. It was a left footed volley from 30 yards, which was quite pleasing. Graham Roberts was supposed to be marking me but he wasn't there. Funnily enough, I bumped into Graham the other day and so I took the opportunity to rib him about it 20 years on!
"Apart from the goals, my job was to hold the ball up as centre-forward, fend the defender off and try to bring other people into the play. I did that fairly well throughout my career and I was always happy to carry out the donkey work for my team-mates. It was part and parcel of my game as a striker back in those days."
During that period of the late 80's and early 90's, Rangers performed consistently well in the top-flight of English football. Indeed, Falco recalls that we gave all the big Clubs a real run for their money.
He said: "There were some very good players at Loftus Road. The whole R's team were mainly internationals - from Dave Seaman in goal, right the way through to Roy Wegerle up front. We had some really experienced men like Ray Wilkins, Peter Reid and Trevor Francis.
"Everyone in the squad was very close to each other and there was excellent camaraderie. We all enjoyed each other's company so that helped out on the pitch as well.
"The fans at QPR really appreciate good football. And we played some quality passing stuff at times. We had marvellous results against many of the leading teams and it was a lovely period to be involved with the Super Hoops."
Falco is now 48 years-old and lives in Essex. He enjoys a varied lifestyle and still keeps an eye on events here at the 'Bush.'
"I work for a friend of mine. We've got a company that does asbestos removal and ventilation hygiene. I go out to meet and greet as I try to sell our wares.
"I also help out with the coaching at a local semi-professional Club in Colchester called Stanway Rovers. They play in the Ridgeons Eastern Counties League. I just keep my hand in there and I enjoy it. I have also coached kids' teams and I worked at the Spurs Academy for a while.
"I still get out on the golf course too. I bump into several people and spot some old faces, which is nice. And I continue to try to play veterans' football, although that's more of a social event."
www.qpr.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10373~1642154,00.html