We're moving in the right direction, says Halkirk manager McElroy
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NEW manager Ewan McElroy says Halkirk United are moving in the right direction as they brace themselves for a tough series of away fixtures – starting with a trip to take on the North Caledonian League champions Golspie on Saturday.
Back-to-back wins over lowly Bonar Bridge have given McElroy an encouraging start, but for the time being he is more concerned with performances than league places.
After hammering Bonar 11-1 the previous week, the Anglers had to settle for a 4-2 win when they met again at the Sutherland side's Migdale Park on Saturday.
Bobby Gunn opened the scoring for Halkirk in the 12th minute before Luke MacBeath levelled seven minutes later. Gunn, who had scored four in the previous week's match, added a quick-fire double to complete a first-half hat-trick.
A Korbyn Cameron goal 17 minutes from the end finally killed off Bonar's resistance, although Dean Fraser netted a stoppage-time consolation.
"We knew it was going to be a different game on their home turf," McElroy said. "But I was delighted with the squad – I thought they were excellent. If anything they'll probably be a wee bit disappointed that it wasn't by a bigger margin.
"We certainly noticed a different Bonar Bridge, both in terms of personnel and in their attitude. But I thought we kept the ball really well and we created plenty of chances."
McElroy, who was appointed after Halkirk parted company with Gordon MacDonald, said: "I'm concentrating on the performances at the minute and I've been delighted with those, both at training and in the matches. I don't think it'll be a quick fix but they are heading in the right direction.
"We've got three very difficult away fixtures coming up [Golspie, Invergordon and Inverness Athletic] and we're under no illusions – we won't be favourites going into any of these games.
"We know a lot of the Golspie boys and I would certainly have them as favourites for the league again. It's going to be an extremely difficult game, but one we're all looking forward to."
