Steve Paterson kicks off second spell at Huntly with victory

Michael McGINLAY says the 'Pele effect' was responsible for shaking Huntly out of the doldrums and ending a disastrous run of results.

A week of upheaval at Christie Park had seen John Teasdale sacked after Huntly's slump to second bottom in the table and replaced by on Thursday by Steve Paterson, 15 years after he ended a previous trophy-laden stint in charge.

McGinlay, the son of former Scotland and Bolton striker John, struck an injury-time winner against Forres Mechanics. The 22-year-old said the former Aberdeen and Caley Thistle manager has already worked his magic in the dressing room, adding: "Everyone has had a lift since the new manager arrived and training was buzzing. Pele being Pele, the boys respect him."

Cove Rangers took charge at the top of the table after a 7-0 demolition of Strathspey Thistle. Callum Watson claimed a hat-trick while Martin Johnston struck twice. Danny Milne and Kevin Webster also made their mark.

Champions Buckie Thistle were held 0-0 at home to Fraserburgh, while the morning's leaders Inverurie Locos lost 2-1 away to Brora Rangers. Formartine sealed a 3-2 win at Clach, while Deveronvale beat Keith 3-0. Nairn County hammered Fort William 7-1 and Turriff United came from a goal behind to beat visiting Rothes. Wick Academy came from 2-0 down at home to Lossiemouth to win 3-2.