having reconstructive surgery to repair damage to his left knee.

Smith incurred what can be seen as a career-threatening injury during the second FA Cup semifinal replay against Dandy Town last week when his knee collapsed after he had tripped over the ball and his foot lodged in the ground early in the first half.

The operation to repair torn ligaments and tendons was performed and it is estimated that it will be eight to 10 weeks before he can start the rehabilitation process.

When contacted yesterday, Smith, who is scheduled to leave hospital today, said that he has youth on his side and thinks he will be back playing eventually, but that the injury had caused him to re-evaluate his outlook on taking part in the sport.

"Right now this injury is making me think `Is it really worth it?','' said Smith, who has been fitted with a brace. "There's no compensation...the love of the sport got me as far as I have, but it's the injury part that bugs you when it comes to not being able to work and stuff.

"It's my first time really getting a serious injury and I'm still in a lot of pain.'' Smith had this advice for his team-mates as they head into tonight's clash against Town at Devonshire Rec. (8 p.m.), saying: "They need to put their all into it and go for broke. They have to go all out...I know they can win it.'' Ironically, referee Rex Osborne, similarly appears done for the season as he was seen getting about with the aid of crutches yesterday.

Osborne fell on his right knee while officiating during the aforementioned match and had experienced a build-up of fluid in the knee, which will require substantial rest.

Earlier in the season North Village defender Treadwell Walker found himself in a similar position to Smith, having broken his leg playing against Boulevard.

He too required surgery and has not appeared since for the Red Devils.

If anything has been learned from the Dandy Town-Boulevard FA Cup semifinal saga, is that there are two winners guaranteed -- the BFA and Devonshire Rec.

from gate receipts and bar sales.

ALBERT SMITH -- In pain.