Highland League: Cove striker expects scrap

Published on 24/09/2012 04:26

MARTIN Johnston expects the Highland League title race to 
become a merciless dogfight this season given the strength-in-depth evident in the north.

The Cove Rangers attacker netted both goals for Cove as they came from behind to condemn Steve Paterson’s Formartine United to a first league defeat of the season, winning 2-1.

The 34 year-old Aberdonian said: “It’s a really strong league this year and very unpredictable because of that. With teams from the north building steadily over the last few seasons, there are going to be a lot of clubs pushing to be up there at the top end. The closing few rounds of matches are going to be an all-out dogfight for the title.”

Nairn County maintained their edge in the title race on goal difference after winning through 3-1 at Lossiemouth.

Huntly stayed third with a 2-1 home win over Turriff while Wick Academy moved fourth with a rousing 4-1 victory over guests Fraserburgh.

Deveronvale thumped Fort William 7-1 in Lochaber, while champions Forres battered Strathspey 6-1 at Mosset Park.

Keith held Buckie to a 1-1 draw, while Inverurie Locos beat Rothes 2-0 and Clach gave Brora a fourth defeat in a row with a 2-1 win at Dudgeon Park.