Cove Ranger's costly draw

COVE Rangers'hopes of a third straight title are out of their hands thanks to a 2-2 draw against Deveronvale.

Buckie Thistle are now five points clear with three games to play. Wins at Rothes and Wick this week would clinch the title before Cove kick another ball.

Scott Fraser and Gary McGowan netted for Deveronvale, while Martin Johnston and Barrie Stephen scored for Cove.

Buckie won 2-0 at Strathspey, with Ian Murray claiming the 200th goal of his Highland League career. Lewis MacKinnon was red-carded but Graeme Stewart clinched the points.

In the other games, Wick won 1-0 at Inverurie, Fraserburgh drew 4-4 with Clach, Fortmartine won 4-1 at Fort William and Nairn County drew with Brora.

In the Fosters League Cup semi-finals, Rothes shocked Keith 3-2 and Forres Mechanics beat Lossiemouth 1-0.