Nairn County Secures Dominant 4-0 Victory Over Rothes

Nairn County showcased a commanding performance in the Breedon Highland League, defeating Rothes 4-0 at Station Park. This win marks Nairn’s third consecutive victory, a feat they have not achieved since November 2023. The home team has been particularly strong, earning 13 points from a possible 18 at their home ground.

The match began with Nairn applying early pressure. Calum MacKay threatened with two free-kicks, one drifting narrowly wide and the other being tipped over the bar by Rothes goalkeeper Stewart Black. Despite Nairn’s dominance, it was not until the 26th minute that they broke the deadlock. Sam Gordon’s cross-cum-shot was deftly converted by Ben Barron from close range, despite Rothes’ claims for offside.

Nairn continued their offensive, doubling their lead just before halftime. Jamie Carnihan’s cross found Andrew Greig, who skillfully maneuvered past his marker before finishing with precision into the bottom corner. Rothes struggled to find their footing, with their captain Brodie Mitchell missing a long-range effort.

As the second half commenced, Rothes needed an early goal to shift momentum. However, Nairn maintained their creative edge. In the 58th minute, Calum MacKay extended the lead with a powerful header from a Greig cross. Rothes had a brief moment of hope when Owen Alexander’s long ball set up Ruairi Duncan, whose shot was magnificently saved by Nairn’s goalkeeper Lewis Munro.

Nairn added to their tally in the 68th minute when Angus Dey finished brilliantly from the edge of the area, solidifying their strong performance. Although the game was effectively decided, both teams continued to pursue chances. Nairn’s Greig came close with a free-kick, while Rothes attempted to respond, but failed to find the net.

Across other matches in the Highland League, Formartine United triumphed over Buckie Thistle 3-1, thanks to a hat-trick from Hamish Ritchie. This victory places Formartine just three points behind league leaders Brora Rangers, who were not in action this weekend.

In a closely contested match, Clachnacuddin and Deveronvale ended level at 1-1, with Troy Cooper scoring for Clachnacuddin and Jamie MacLellan equalizing for Deveronvale. Meanwhile, Huntly managed to end a four-match losing streak with a 1-1 draw against Banks o’ Dee, as Angus Grant netted for Huntly before Kane Winton equalized for Dee.

Fraserburgh continued their impressive form with a 2-0 victory over Keith, maintaining a five-match winning streak. Inverurie Locos also secured their second win of the season, defeating Lossiemouth 2-0.

In the Highland League Cup, Brora Rangers advanced decisively with a 6-0 victory against Strathspey Thistle, featuring two goals from Shane Sutherland. Forres Mechanics also recorded a stunning 6-0 win over Wick Academy, with Calum Frame completing a hat-trick, further emphasizing the team’s dominant performance.

These results illustrate the competitive nature of the Highland League, with teams vying for crucial points as the season progresses.