‘Feel-good factor’ fires up Scorries
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SEVENTEEN goals in Academy’s last two games has surpassed almost everyone’s expectations, apart from manager Davie Kirkwood.
After knocking eight past Fort William in the Highland League and going one better against Coldstream in the Scottish Cup, the manager is all smiles about how his team is now scoring at will. After dominating six out of their first seven matches in the league, with only 10 points to show for it, he said Academy are realising the potential they have.
“The second half against Coldstream was a joy to behold,” he said. “Even though we were only one goal up at half-time, we had numerous chances to put the game out of reach before the interval.
“After talking to the players in the dressing room they came out and did the business. The Scottish Cup is the biggest tournament for lower-league clubs and, from number one to 11, our lads were magnificent.
“We want to take that form and use it against the likes of Huntly and Fraserburgh because, with the talent we have, we should be further up the league.”
The club has had an indifferent start to the season but, after losing to Deveronvale at the start of the month – a defeat which prompted an angry response from Kirkwood – Wick Academy have set about proving a point with two massive wins.
Kirkwood has praised the squad for showing huge character but has singled out his young players who have gone about taking their chances.
“When you look at Grant Steven, who is only 19 years old, he has become a stalwart at the centre back due to his great performances. That is a hard position for a kid his age to play. But the way he has been able to cope and dominate experienced Highland League players has put a big smile on my face.
“Alan Farquhar and Stevie Cunningham have also played a big part in going forward with Gary Weir and David Allan banging in the goals. But all the players have raised their games knowing that if they play well they will stay in the first team.
“When you get these kind of results, there is a feel-good factor which spreads around the club.”
Kirkwood has a full-strength side at his disposal for the trip south to face an improving Huntly.
The Christie Park side has also won its last two games – its most notable being the 4-1 thrashing of Keith in the Strathbogie derby.
Manager Dave McGinlay said with both teams having a full squad to choose from, tomorrow’s match could be a real cracker. “We had a big win against Newton Stewart in the Scottish Cup, but Wick will be a huge step up in gear for us,” he said.
“We are two sides which believe in playing attractive passing football and those who come to watch will be in for a great match. We are definitely looking to the future as we have nine under-21 players in our squad.
“But we have been able to compliment that with a few experienced signings which has worked out for us so far. Wick Academy are a threat to any side in the league and have proved a bogey side for us in past seasons.
“There are no easy games at this level, but winning does give you confidence and, hopefully, we will get the right result.”
