McKenna praises work ethic as Wick Academy strengthen grip on seventh spot
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Tom McKenna praised the work ethic of his Wick Academy players as they saw off Buckie Thistle on Saturday to strengthen their bid for a top seven place in the Highland League.
“I thought the effort the lads put in today was unbelievable,” the manager said after Marc Macgregor’s double had secured a 2-0 win on a day when a strong wind and a heavy surface combined to make it virtually impossible to play flowing football.
It means the Scorries remain unbeaten in their last eight league games, a run that includes six wins and two draws. Their last league defeat was against Formartine United at the end of December.
“Conditions were difficult. Both sides are known for being good footballing teams but it was very difficult to try and produce any football,” McKenna said.
“But I thought our lads were superb today with their work ethic from start to finish and the football they did try to play. I thought we were convincing winners, to be honest.
“We dominated throughout and it was really pleasing to see. It was a fantastic shift by the lads, especially on a heavy pitch. The workrate was absolutely commendable.
“It takes us a wee bit away from Buckie now. They pressed now and again but we were dominant over the 90 minutes and it was a good convincing three points for us.”
Unbeaten in the league in 2019, McKenna’s men look in good shape as they prepare to face the top two teams – Cove Rangers (away) and Brora Rangers (home) – in their next two fixtures.
“It’s a great run,” the manager said. “We have two difficult games coming up, but the lads must be really confident.
“The players are in a good place after eight league games undefeated, sitting in seventh place and with games in hand over other teams. They’re winning games quite well.”
McKenna was happy to see Marc Macgregor getting among the goals again.
“He was out for a wee while. He has come back and looks fresh and sharp and he’s enjoying his football again, which is good,” McKenna said. “He’s in a rich vein of form at the moment.”
