Bute eye win to seal return to top flight

Bute manager Barry Martin believes it will be one of the finest moments in the club’s history if they secure their return to shinty’s top flight today.

The islanders face nearest challengers Glasgow Mid Argyll and a win will ensure they are back playing elite shinty in Rothesay at the first time of asking.

Six years ago, the club reached the sport’s top flight for the first time in their history but relegation last year could have signalled a barren period. Remarkably, though, the club has won every league game this season, conceding only four goals.

They also lifted the Balliemore Cup against Caberfeidh last month and Martin believes winning the title would cap a perfect season. “We won the Balliemore Cup the last time we were promoted but, if we secure the title today, I think that would represent an even better season because I think we dropped points six years ago. In many ways, this has been the longest season for a long time because we have been itching to get back playing at the higher level.”

Glasgow Mid Argyll must take the two points if they are to hold onto their slim title chances.