weekend as their 1992-93 campaign drew to a close.

But what began as a season of joy and high expectations ultimately turned into one of desperation and unfulfilled promise.

Hopes of promotion to the First Division faded with mounting injuries and in the end a place in the middle of the pack was all they could muster.

Goater, himself, typified the roller coaster year endured by the Merry Millers as he was dominant early, scoring seven goals in 12 matches -- highlighted by one in a 1-0 defeat of Everton during the League Cup which had the British press buzzing -- only to wane following his return from World Cup duty, registering just one tally from 10 further appearances.

"The start was exactly what I expected,'' said Goater from his England home yesterday. "It was brilliant, everything was going according to expectations, even through the World Cup.

"But I lost form when I came back in December and things just went downhill.

I played 12 matches and then came the injury.'' The Bermudian required arthroscopic surgery on his left knee following a match against Port Vale in February and was sidelined for over a month, which coincided with Rotherham's demise, where they fell from fifth to their final position in 11th place.

Goater returned to play the last few matches, including the final game against Mansfield -- a 3-1 victory for Rotherham -- that had Goater earn his team a penalty when he was fouled in the penalty area.

At present he faces the prospect of having to negotiate a contract for next season as his current agreement will soon expire.

Last year saw Goater signing on a week-to-week basis until October, when he entered into the current pact with Rotherham.

"My manager had me in his office today (yesterday) and was looking at my overall performance this season,'' he said. "He was impressed with the beginning, but added that I only gave them half a season and he wasn't happy with that.

"I'm sure that we'll be able to come to an agreement soon...it all depends on what the club is offering.'' Recent months have not been good times for local players attempting to create a niche in the English game. Three -- Kentoine Jennings, Meshach Wade and Kyle Lightbourne -- have all had the axe fall on their pro careers and face a tough battle to get back.

Goater said he understood the pitfalls of professional sports and that he was fortifying himself for life after soccer.

To this end Goater has involved himself in a number of business ventures, including organising soccer clinics with friend and fellow professional David Bascome as well as forming S.G. Limited, which is responsible for supplying footage for Rotherham matches shown on local television.

He also may seek longer than a one year contract, rather than signing short term and hoping a bigger club comes looking.

"If they want you they'll come and pay to get you,'' lamented the young striker.

Goater returns to the Island tomorrow and will continue with rehabilitation of his knee, while performing his planned summer activities.

HALF A SEASON -- Shawn Goater enjoyed a blazing start with Rotherham before being hobbled by a knee injury.