Cup final place is reward for squad's hard work, says Halkirk United manager
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Securing a cup final place is a reward for the "power of work" put in by the Halkirk United squad, according to manager Ewan McElroy.
The first silverware of the North Caledonian FA season will be decided when the Anglers take on local rivals Thurso in the Football Times Cup final next month.
The match is scheduled for Saturday, November 20, at Wick's Harmsworth Park, with a 2pm kick-off.
Halkirk United and Thurso overcame Nairn County “A” and Loch Ness respectively, both away, in the semi-finals last weekend.
The Anglers won 4-0 with strikes from Andy Mackay, Grant MacNab and Jonah Martens as well as an own goal after Bryan Reid’s cross was deflected in.
"I am delighted for everyone involved," McElroy said. "The boys have been putting in a power of work in the time we've been here and have been rewarded by reaching their first final as a group.
"It was a really combative performance from the squad, another clean sheet and a well-deserved win in difficult conditions.
"We knew previously that Nairn were particularly strong up top and in the middle of the park. I thought our midfield trio of Colin Henstridge, James Mackintosh and Grant MacNab were able to control the tempo and speed of the game from the off.
"Another clean sheet away from home is a massive positive. We always feel we have a goal in us but you could see how determined all the boys were to keep a clean sheet. Kieran Macleod certainly helped with a cracking save from a free kick late on."
The table-topping Anglers now turn their attention back to league business with a trip to Fortrose to meet a Loch Ness side who will be aiming to bounce back from their semi-final disappointment.
Loch Ness are second in the table, a point behind Halkirk, having played one game fewer.
McElroy said: "Saturday is obviously another hugely difficult challenge for the boys. We have a few really testing games coming up over the next few weeks.
"We will need to assess the squad as we have a few doubts, niggles and holidays to contend with. Of course it is not ideal timing and unfortunate there is a cluster of boys at the same time, but it's something we just need to get on with and we will prepare as best we can."
