Wick's young players 'showed no fear' says boss
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WICK manager Davie Kirkwood said he got the same performance he’s had all season from his players on Saturday... but, thankfully, a different result.
Against one of the big spenders of the Highland League, Wick outclassed their opponents from start to finish to achieve arguably one of the best results of the season so far. He particularly highlighted Sam Mackay who, he said, had his best game under his stewardship.
“How he is not playing at a higher level leaves me in bewilderment. He controlled the game from start to finish and was a major influence throughout the 90 minutes.
“He has been playing well in the league, but the icing on the cake was at North Lodge Park.
“Richard Macadie also had his best game of the season with Craig Shearer and Gary Manson also keeping the defence tight at the back. Overall, it was a great team performance and one which we will carry on against Nairn County [on Saturday].”
With five players missing from his usual starting line-up, Kirkwood praised youngsters Alan Hughes and James Mackay for coming into the first team and giving solid performances.
“Saturday was one of those occasions where you ask the boys to give that bit extra and they delivered against one of the major sides. Formartine had a few ex-professional players in the squad and we had three teenagers who came out on top against them.
“They didn’t show any fear on the pitch which can only be a good sign for the club. For us to be successful this season, we do need a fully fit squad. But if these young guys can come in and cover like they did at the weekend, we have a great future.”
Formartine manager Steve Pat-erson said his players are not showing the commitment or passion he is demanding from them. He is still focused on challenging for the title, but if the club decides its future doesn’t involve him, he is happy to walk away.
“We might not have won the game even it was 11 against 11,” he said. “There has been a lack of heart and desire in the last number of games.
“I take full responsibility having signed these boys. I have gone and recruited in the summer after researching them. In my book every one of them was a quality player but they are just not doing it and it is a bit embarrassing because we are not getting near a return from just about every player.”
He added: “I am at the mercy of the chairman, it is hard for me to keep going, ‘can I go and sign him and him?’. I am frustrated and angry, and if it is best for Formartine me not being here I have not got a problem with that, but I am working my backside off.”
