Thurso boss accepts some of his squad may be unwilling to make Orkney trip
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Thurso manager Stevie Reid says he can fully accept why some of his players may be reluctant to make the trip across the Pentland Firth for Saturday's North Caledonian League fixture against Orkney.
The Vikings will be looking to bounce back from last weekend's 4-0 defeat to Halkirk United, but it is understood some of the squad are considering whether or not they wish to travel.
The journey by road and sea has been made more difficult by the coronavirus restrictions, and an added problem is the lack of access to changing facilities.
Reid said he would know more after Thursday night's training session, but he made it clear he would respect the decision of any player who opted to pull out on this occasion.
“If they don't fancy it they don't fancy it – I'm not forcing anyone to go and play football," he said. "It's their shout.
“I've been brutally honest with the guys about what the scenario is and am purely leaving it up to their own decision.
"Plus the game has been changed to a plastic pitch, and the Orkney one is not the best of quality. The one we've got in Thurso is way ahead of the one in Orkney – and it has no shelter whatsoever, so you're open to the elements the whole time."
James McLean will miss out after being injured in the derby defeat, while keeper Asa Sinclair has a back problem and hasn't trained this week.
Reid says past form suggests Thurso can go into the game with confidence.
"We played quite well against Golspie, then we let ourselves down badly last week," he said.
"But we've got a good record over there – we've probably got one of the best records in Orkney. It's a funny old game."
Halkirk United also face a tough away assignment on Saturday as they take on leaders Invergordon.
The Anglers will be looking to build on their impressive display against Thurso.
Manager Ewan McElroy said: "Saturday's win was a boost for all the boys as they can see that we are going in the right direction. It takes time to build a squad at this level, and everyone involved knows that there is still plenty of work to be done and progress takes a lot of hard work from the players.
"I think every game in this top-six league will be a huge test for our young squad. For me, Invergordon were the strongest team last year and they have further strengthened this year. You only have to look at their results pre-season against Highland League opposition and their start to the season to see that.
"In fairness I think Golspie and Orkney will be up there as well – but Invergordon will be the team to beat, for sure."
The Anglers have been hit by a series of injury setbacks in central defence.
"We have been a little unfortunate to lose as many players in the same position as we have," McElroy said. "However, we will just try and juggle the squad again and it’s then an opportunity for others to come in and stake a claim for a place.
"Saturday is a massive challenge for everyone but every game is a learning curve at the moment and we are all looking forward to it."
