Clachnacuddin and Forres Mechanics Set for North of Scotland Cup Final

The North of Scotland Cup final is all set for March 16, 2024, as Clachnacuddin and Forres Mechanics prepare to battle for the coveted trophy at Station Park in Nairn. Both teams are eager to capture their first piece of silverware in over a decade, with kick-off scheduled for 14:00.

Troy Cooper, who has emerged as a standout player for Clachnacuddin, reflects on his journey from a supporter to a key figure in the squad. The 24-year-old winger has netted an impressive 11 goals this season. Cooper, a lifelong fan of Clach, only began his footballing career in earnest after serving four years in the Black Watch regiment. His transition from the military to football appears to have ignited a passion for the game that he never anticipated.

“I grew up just around the corner from Grant Street, Clach’s my local team and I always wanted to play for them,” Cooper stated. “Being involved in cup finals with Clach is a dream really. Watching them win a trophy back in 2014 was amazing, so to do it as a player would be really special.”

On the opposing side, Forres Mechanics are also aiming for a significant victory. Striker Calum Frame, who leads the North football scoring charts with 15 goals in 16 matches, is determined to bring home the trophy to repay the faith shown in him by the club. Frame joined Forres two years ago and has become a vital part of manager Steven MacDonald’s plans.

“It’s brilliant to be in the final. It’s been 14 years since Forres have been in a cup final,” Frame remarked. “We need to seize this opportunity to win something. I’m over the moon to be scoring, and if I can score in the final, it’ll equal my tally from last season.”

The significance of this match extends beyond personal achievements. Both clubs have a rich history in the North of Scotland Cup, which was first contested in the 1888-89 season. The last time Forres Mechanics lifted the trophy was during a stunning first-half performance in 2010, while Clachnacuddin last claimed victory in 2014 against their city rivals, Caley Thistle.

In addition to the cup final, the Highland League continues to progress with Brora Rangers reinforcing their squad by signing experienced defender Ross Draper. Manager Steven Mackay believes Draper’s extensive career, which includes a Scottish Cup win in 2015 with Inverness Caledonian Thistle, will add much-needed experience and physicality to the team as they aim for promotion.

“Ross will bring an abundance of experience and he’s had a lot of success in his career,” Mackay noted. “We lacked a bit of experience last season, and if we want to go for promotion, I think Ross is the kind of signing we needed.”

Elsewhere in the Highland League, teams are gearing up for crucial matches as the season progresses. Rothes, currently at the bottom of the league, faces Lossiemouth in what is being termed a must-win game. Manager Ronnie Sharp emphasised the importance of securing points to escape the relegation zone.

“It’s an important game for both teams, and we need to get a result,” Sharp said. “We’re still young, but for the first time since pre-season, we’ve got close to a full squad available.”

As the final approaches, both Clachnacuddin and Forres Mechanics are poised not only to compete for glory but also to rekindle their historical prominence in Scottish football. Fans from both clubs will undoubtedly bring their enthusiasm to Station Park, making this match a memorable occasion in the Highland League calendar.