Football Times Cup derby sees Thurso looking to build on winning start
Thurso will be looking to build on their winning start in the North Caledonian League when they begin their defence of the Football Times Cup in Saturday's derby against Halkirk United at Morrison Park.
The Vikings were severely under-strength for their opening league game against Nairn County "A", with many of their squad involved in the Highland Amateur Cup final in Wick, but they ran out 4-2 winners at Riverside Park.
Kyle MacDonald gave Nairn an early lead but Thurso responded with goals from Grant Aitkenhead (penalty), Danny Coghill, Dylan Alexander and Lewis Shepherd before the break. Kieran Duffty pulled one back late on.
Thurso manager Michael Bremner said: "We were buzzing after the game. It had been such a draining kind of a week trying to get players.
"To be honest, with the starting eleven I had I was really confident anyway – it was just that we lacked a bit of numbers.
"It was a great start – we're delighted to get the season going with three points.
"We're hoping to have a lot of boys back this week. The boys that came in and helped us on Saturday, I've asked them back as well. You need a considerable size of squad."
Thurso lifted the Football Times Cup last season when they defeated Halkirk United on penalties after the final ended 2-2.
"We're going out to retain it but it's going to be a tough game," Bremner said. "Halkirk are going to have all their boys back.
"Early on in the season there might be a bit of sussing each other out for a wee while but it should be a good game, hopefully."
Fixtures for Saturday, August 27 – Football Times Cup, first round: Alness United v St Duthus; Halkirk United v Thurso (1.30pm).
North Caledonian League: Clachnacuddin "A" v Loch Ness; Nairn County "A" v Bonar Bridge; Orkney v Inverness Athletic.