Grady McGrath Dominates Early Highland League Scoring Charts

A loan striker from Cove Rangers has taken the Highland League by storm, emerging as the top scorer in the early season. Grady McGrath, currently on loan to Brechin City, has netted an impressive seven goals, including two hat-tricks in his first four league matches. His remarkable performance has placed him at the forefront of the goal-scoring charts, setting a high standard for his competitors.

Following closely behind, veteran forward Rory McAllister of Formartine United has also made a significant impact, scoring five goals in the league. His experience, having previously played for Aberdeen and Caley Thistle, shines through as he adapts seamlessly to the lower league’s demands.

Several players have also emerged as key contributors in the scoring race. At Brora Rangers, both Connor Bunce and Jordan MacRae have matched McAllister’s tally, each securing five goals. They are joined by Angus Grant and Sam Robertson from Huntly and Mitchell Findlay, a league newcomer who has notably begun his campaign with five goals for Brechin City.

Another exciting newcomer is teenager Miller Keir, who has made a solid entry at Turriff United with four goals. His performance, along with that of former Turriff player Callan Gray at Fraserburgh and ex-Turriff and Inverurie forward Fergus Alberts at Deveronvale, highlights the influx of talent in this season’s competition.

Surprisingly, Strathspey Thistle has also made headlines with their striker Shaun Morrison, who has scored four goals following his previous stints at Forres Mechanics and Rothes. His contributions have been vital for the team’s performance, further intensifying the competition for the top spot in the league.

As the season progresses, the current Highland League scoring leaders are as follows:

– **7 Goals**: Grady McGrath (Brechin City)
– **5 Goals**: Mitchell Findlay (Brechin City), Connor Bunce (Brora Rangers), Jordan MacRae (Brora Rangers), Angus Grant (Huntly), Sam Robertson (Huntly), Rory McAllister (Formartine United)
– **4 Goals**: Tony Dingwall (Brora Rangers), James Anderson (Clachnacuddin), Fergus Alberts (Deveronvale), Callan Gray (Fraserburgh), Shaun Morrison (Strathspey Thistle), Miller Keir (Turriff United)
– **3 Goals**: Andrew Hunter (Banks o’ Dee), Mitch Taylor (Brechin City), Max Ewan (Brora Rangers), Josh Peters (Buckie Thistle), Calum Frame (Forres Mechanics), Sam Garnham (Turriff United), Marc MacGregor (Wick Academy)

As the competition heats up, fans will be eager to see if McGrath can maintain his lead and if other players can rise to the challenge in the subsequent matches of the Highland League.