Halkirk United eager to get up and running in derby clash with Thurso
Halkirk United manager Ewan McElroy has been "hugely impressed" by his squad's approach to pre-season training, although he expects it will take a few weeks to get everyone up to speed for the rigours of the North Caledonian League.
The Anglers get their 2023/24 campaign under way on Wednesday night with a derby against Thurso at Morrison Park. It was originally due to be played on the opening day, August 12, but was rearranged as local amateur clubs were still involved in the latter stages of the summer season.
Thurso will be in buoyant mood after they began with an impressive 4-2 victory over Alness United on Saturday.
McElroy said: "We are all really looking forward to Wednesday night and the opportunity to get up and running for the season ahead.
"We are a little behind in games played, but it was the sensible decision from the league to postpone.
"We have seen a number of new faces arrive at the club and, with that, a few have also left. I've been hugely impressed by the boys at training and there is a really good atmosphere among the boys at this early stage.
"Like most teams, it will take a number of weeks to get players up to speed and probably a number more before things are completely in place.
"I watched a little of Thurso versus Alness at the weekend and I have no doubt it's going to be a really difficult game on Wednesday. However, it's certainly one we are looking forward to."
Thurso manager Michael Bremner has made it clear that an improved league position will be the main priority for the Vikings this season – and they got off to the perfect start with Saturday's win against Alness at the Dammies.
Stan Keith opened the scoring for Alness after 12 minutes, but James Murray equalised seven minutes later and Allan Munro put the Vikings in front five minutes before half-time.
Darren Sheppard extended Thurso's lead in the 70th minute. Craig Dryburgh reduced the deficit six minutes later but Josh Sutherland made sure of the points with a couple of minutes to go.
Meanwhile, Bonar Bridge have already matched their points tally from 2022/23 after a surprise win against Inverness Athletic.
The Sutherland side have been perennial strugglers since returning to the North Caley set-up in 2019, and may have been fearing the worst again after losing their opening match of the season 4-0 to Fort William.
However, they came roaring back at Athletic's expense, winning 5-2 in North Kessock.
Two goals in three minutes, from Robbie Breen and Alex McKenzie, midway through the first half put Bonar in charge, and Shadi Ali made it 3-0 before half time.
An own goal reduced the deficit early in the second half, but Bonar added two more through Bruce Urquhart's penalty and McKenzie's second of the afternoon. Connel Gresham scored Athletic's second late on.
Defending champions Loch Ness were 5-0 winners at home to Clachnacuddin "A" with goals from Euan Neil, Luke Seago, Liam Taylor (penalty), Jamie Fraser and Allan MacPhee.
Fort William continued their strong start by winning 7-1 at home against Orkney, helped by a double from Doeimassei Muller Doguie.
North Caledonian League results: Fort William 7, Orkney 1; Inverness Athletic 2, Bonar Bridge 5; Loch Ness 5, Clachnacuddin "A" 0; Thurso 4, Alness United 2.
Fixtures – Wednesday, August 23 – North Caledonian League: Halkirk United v Thurso (8pm); Golspie Sutherland v St Duthus.
Saturday, August 26 – League: Orkney v Clachnacuddin "A". Football Times Cup: Alness United v Halkirk United (2pm); Bonar Bridge v St Duthus; Fort William v Golspie Sutherland; Invergordon v Loch Ness; Inverness Athletic v Thurso (2pm).