Last chance for pre-season fixtures as 2020 shinty season approaches
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Shinty clubs are facing going into the new season next weekend without any game time under their belts as weather is threatening to cause more cancellations on Saturday.
The pick of the final batch of pre-season challenges before the season gets underway will be the annual MacDonald Cup clash between Glenurquhart and Strathglass at Drumnadrochit.
Although both teams play in the National Division, Glenurquhart will again go into this encounter as strong favourites.
But Strathglass, under new manager, Allan MacLeod will be hoping that they can cause an upset and get their hands on the trophy which has been in Glenurquhart possession since 2011.
Glenurquhart won last year with Connor Golabek’s goal giving them a 1–0 win.
Co-managers Stuart Mackintosh and Eddie Tembo go in to their second season at the helm of the Drumnadrochit club targeting a ninth consecutive triumph.
Prior to the main match, the reserve teams of Glen and Strath play for the Ali Ban Cup which is currently in Glen’s possession after a 1–0 win at Cannich last February.
Kilmallie have invited neighbouring rivals Lochaber to contest the BSW Cup at Canal Park.
Last year Kilmallie took the silverware after coming out on top over local rivals Fort William by a 1–0 scoreline with Bryan Mackay’s goal proving to be enough to secure victory.
Also lined up for Saturday are three all Premiership challenges.
Champions Kingussie play hosts to Caberfeidh in what is expected to be a keenly contested affair with the Bill MacPherson Salver at stake.
Last year Kings retained the silverware in similar fashion to their 2018 triumph with a penalty shoot-out securing victory over Cabers. At the end of ninety minutes the teams were level at 2–2 with Kings going on to win 3–2 from the penalty spot.
A visit to Newtonmore awaits Fort William’s young team. Fort after their perfect National Division campaign last year return to the top-flight this season and will be relishing the opportunity to compete at the top level again, Reraig is the venue for Kinlochshiel’s clash with newly promoted Glasgow Mid Argyll.
At Balgate, Skye are Lovat’s visitors whilst National Division debutants Aberdour face North Division One runners up Glengarry.
