Nairn County Dominates Rothes 4-0, Claim Third Straight Win

Nairn County secured a convincing 4-0 victory against Rothes at Station Park, marking their third consecutive win in the Breedon Highland League. Goals from Ben Barron, Andrew Greig, Calum MacKay, and Angus Dey solidified the Wee County’s strong home performance, as they continue to build momentum in the league.

This win is significant for Nairn, as it represents their first string of three victories since November 2023. Out of a possible 18 points, 13 have been accrued at home, demonstrating their dominance at Station Park. In contrast, Rothes remains winless this season, with their last win recorded on November 2 of the previous year.

Early in the match, Nairn showcased their attacking intent. MacKay’s free-kicks from the left were problematic for Rothes, with one narrowly missing the target and the other being saved by goalkeeper Stewart Black. The home side came close to taking the lead when Sam Gordon delivered a cross that MacKay headed wide, which was a missed opportunity.

Rothes did manage to test home goalkeeper Lewis Munro, who made a crucial save from Thomas Brady’s free-kick from 25 yards. However, it was Nairn who broke the deadlock in the 26th minute. Gordon’s cross-cum-shot was deftly touched in by Barron, who found the net from close range despite Rothes’ appeals for offside being ignored.

As the first half progressed, Nairn extended their lead just before halftime. A well-placed delivery from Jamie Carnihan found Greig, whose deft first touch allowed him to finish left-footed into the bottom right corner, doubling Nairn’s advantage.

The second half began with Rothes needing an early goal to reignite their hopes. Yet, Nairn continued to dominate play. In the 58th minute, they scored again when Greig delivered a precise cross for MacKay, who headed into the left corner. Rothes’ best opportunity came shortly after, when Owen Alexander’s long ball found Ruairi Duncan, but Munro’s brilliant save denied them.

Nairn’s fourth goal came in the 68th minute, when Dey broke free from challenges and executed a superb finish from the edge of the area into the top left corner. Although the match was effectively decided, both teams had chances in the closing stages. Greig nearly added another for Nairn with a free-kick, while Rothes’ Thomson hit the side-netting following a cross.

In other league results, Formartine United triumphed over Buckie Thistle with a 3-1 scoreline, thanks to a hat-trick from Hamish Ritchie. Meanwhile, Clachnacuddin and Deveronvale battled to a 1-1 draw, as did Huntly against Banks o’ Dee.

In further matches, Fraserburgh extended their winning streak to five by defeating Keith 2-0, and Inverurie Locos secured a 2-0 victory over Lossiemouth. The Highland League Cup saw Brora Rangers eliminate Strathspey Thistle with a decisive 6-0 victory, while Forres Mechanics similarly triumphed over Wick Academy with a dominant score of 6-0.

As the season progresses, Nairn County’s strong performance places them in a favorable position, while Rothes will need to regroup in search of their first victory of the campaign.