Former Moray star Lee targets Scotland cap
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A FORMER Moray rugby star is hoping to kick his way into recognition for a full Scotland cap after starring on the international stage.
Ex-Elgin High pupil Lee Millar’s exploits on the domestic scene as stand off for Gala this term earned him selection for Scotland’s club XV match against France last Friday.
And the 20-year-old, who played for more than half of his young life for his hometown Moray, rose to the occasion in front of a 1,200 crowd at Ayr by kicking two penalties and two conversions for his country in their thrilling 25-18 victory.
"It was a nice achievement to be selected, and personally I was happy enough with a solid performance," Lee said. "I played my part by kicking 10 points, and it was a great experience."
Cheered on by his dad Brian, himself a former Moray RFC stalwart, and mum Lorna, Millar enjoyed his first international outing, and is setting his sights on playing for the first XV at Murrayfield one day.
Having amassed an impressive 209 points for Gala this season, the youngster has made a real name for himself not only in the Borders, but on the Scottish rugby map.
"There are scouts who come and watch games but I think it was more word of mouth which earned me my selection," he said. "Playing against higher class teams this year has really helped me.
"Getting a full cap now is definitely my ambition. I’ve always wanted to play at as high a level as I could.
Millar has featured mainly at stand-off for Gala but also at full back and centre, and feels he owes his old club Moray a debt of gratitude for helping him reach an international level.
"Playing for Moray was a big part of where I am now," he admits.
Encouraged by his dad, Lee began progressing through the Moray ranks from the age of just five, and by 15 he was featuring for the senior team.
After two years of first team rugby, he was in touch with Gary Issac, another former Moray player who went to play prop for Gala and Scotland, and was offered a chance to take up a base rugby post at college in Galasheils.
"Base rugby is basically a rugby performance course," he revealed. "It gives you an insight into what it takes to be a professional and more of an understanding of a sporting environment, and I did it for two years."
Millar has also represented the Borders in a representative match against the Barbarians, and will be hoping to inspire Gala to another victory at Dundee HSFP in the RBS Premiership this weekend.
