Thurso are set to take on Halkirk United in Caithness derby
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THURSO are set to welcome Halkirk United in the final game in the North Caledonian League in 2022 as the two teams are set to clash in the Caithness derby at 1pm.
Both teams will be looking to end the season on a high note after a disappointing first half of the campaign where they are well off the title race.
Thurso find themselves in 11th place on 11 points with Halkirk United eighth on 21 points.
Halkirk manager Ewan McElroy says both teams know what to expect given it is a derby.
He said: “You always want to do well in every game. Both teams know each other well and they are usually tight affairs, I would think Saturday will be no different.
“We have a few additional niggles and injuries we will need to assess at the end of the week. However, a number have also managed to juggle shifts and plans and will make a welcome return to the squad.”
Halkirk are without Tomas Pearson after he suffered a broken tibia against Loch Ness last week.
McElroy says he will be out for a while but tips him to bounce back once he recovers.
“We are all gutted for Tomas that’s for sure,” said McElroy.
“You won’t meet a nicer lad and in the short time he has been with us he has been terrific. He is an excellent footballer, has slotted in perfectly with the squad and his attitude is commendable.
“We have a number of 17-18 year olds that have joined this year and all are adapting really well.
“Along with Tomas, Liam Bain, Alan Mathieson and William Cannop have all made a good impression and are looking to push on as we go.”
“Hopefully Tomas heals up well and I have no doubt he will come back stronger than ever.”
Thurso manager Michael Bremner was unavailable for comment at the time of going to press.
It is derby day across the league with local rivals facing each other in Sutherland and Ross-shire.
At Migdale, Bonar Bridge are set to take on Golspie Sutherland. A Ross derby takes place at the Recreation Grounds on Saturday as champions Invergordon are set to take on Alness United.
Loch Ness will look to end the first half of the North Caledonian League season undefeated when they take on Fort William at Fortrose tomorrow.
St Duthus head to Inverness Athletic and Nairn County A face Clach A.
