Tom McKenna hails ‘loyalty’ and ‘respect’ of squad following Archer Shield defeat
A late goal ended Caithness hopes of securing the Archer Shield on Saturday, after a close fought contest with Orkney at Castletown.
Orkney broke the deadlock with 25 minutes to go when new Wick Academy signing George Ewing found the net with a stunning chip from the edge of the box.
Tom McKenna’s men drew level from the penalty spot through Kieran Macgregor, but could not prevent an 85th minute Orkney winner, side footed into the net by Daniel Hourston.
Manager Tom McKenna bemoaned the early loss of key player Cameron Montgomery to injury and a lack of composure as contributing factors in the outcome of the match.
McKenna said: “It’s always disappointing to lose a game of football, especially when you believe the team your associated with has worked harder and played the better football.
“I thought we dominated the play and created the better opportunities — unfortunately we just lacked composure and that necessary experience to produce a better outcome.
“It was disappointing to lose Cameron Montgomery so early in the game as he is a player who can cause any defence problems with his pace and skill.
“I thought Orkney were very competitive and direct in their play, they did have a spell in the second half where they put us under a lot of pressure, from which they scored their two goals.”
Post-match, Caithness AFA chairman Murray Coghill joined Ken Wood, former Caithness AFA and Highland Amateur Cup executive committee secretary, in presenting the Archer Shield to Orkney captain Wayne Kirkness.
McKenna, who this winter will take the reins of North Caledonian League side Thurso, said respect and loyalty were driving factors in his decision to stick with the majority of players from his previous squads for this year’s game.
He added: “My squad selection was influenced by loyalty. The majority of the squad have played in the past three games I've been involved in. They have showed respect and loyalty to Caithness and for the fixture I thought it only right to repay that loyalty.
“Out with the experienced members of the squad, we did have a few younger players. I think it's good for the individuals and the team to have youth involved to gain a knowledge and experience of the day, the game and standards expected for future games.
“County games are an important fixture in the football calendar. It’s a day that unites the football community. Usual rival spectators can get together to support their county and players, and it gives players an opportunity to compete against different personnel, which presents fresh challenges.”
Squad: Lewis Gallagher, Dylan Alexander, Innes Mackintosh, Stuart Campbell, Taylor Campbell, Luke Manson (captain), Darren Sheppard, Conor Farquhar, Cameron Montgomery, Sam Barclay, Kieran Macgregor, Kian Mackay, Kyran Alexander, Josh Sutherland
