Highland League: Gregg Carrol gets plaudits for Buckie title

MARTIN Charlesworth, who scored twice in Buckie Thistle's 3-0 win at Wick to secure the club's first Highland League title in 52 years, says manager Gregg Carrol is responsible for instilling a winning mentality in the team.

Carrol steered Thistle to the title in only his second full season in charge and Charlesworth said: "Gregg's a winner, and that mentality rubs off on players in the dressing room."

Carrol said: "To go the whole season and lose only three games is a fantastic achievement."

David MacRae scored Buckie's other goal from the penalty spot after half an hour when Gary Manson floored Graeme Stewart in the box. Charlesworth fired home the opener and the third to spark wild celebrations.

Elsewhere, a 47th-minute penalty from Alan Hale gave Fraserburgh victory at Keith to maintain the Broch's chase for second place.

Forres kept up their good form ahead of the Highland League Cup final with a 3-0 victory over Brora, while Formartine beat Clach by the same scoreline.

Second half goals from Franny More and Kris Duncan helped bottom side Rothes to a surprise 2-0 win over Nairn.

However, in the biggest shock of the day, Fort William triumphed 3-2 at home to Inverurie.

Turriff thrashed Strathspey 5-1 at home and Huntly won 3-0 at Lossiemouth.