Foran hat-trick enough to help ICT overcome Elgin
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RICHIE Foran claimed a hat-trick as Caley Thistle continued their unbeaten start to pre-season with a 3-0 triumph over Elgin City at Borough Briggs.
Inverness had already scored nine without reply in wins over Highland League sides Clach and Forres earlier in the week, but they were given a difficult time of it by their Third Division opponents before eventually coming out on top.
Caley Thistle had Tom Aldred, currently on loan from Watford, making his first start, while trialist Andrew Shinie was also included. There was a place on the bench for former Ross County and Liverpool youngster Alex Cooper, who manager Terry Butcher has invited to train with the first-team squad.
It was Andrew Shinnie who went close to giving the Highland Capital club an early lead before his younger brother Graeme had to be replaced after picking up a leg injury, although Butcher later confirmed he was substituted as a precaution.
Foran's overhead kick from Kenny Gillet's cross eventually opened the scoring after 34 minutes and it remained 1-0 to the visitors at the interval.
A fine double save from Jonny Tuffey, who had replaced Ryan Esson at half-time, denied Elgin duo Stuart Leslie and Craig Gunn and soon after they found themselves 2-0 behind in the 49th minute, Foran with a neat finish into the corner from 16 yards following good work by young substitute Andy Greig.
The same combination then linked up to good effect tweo minutes later as Foran completed his treble with a smart finish from close range.
Greig could have increased Caley Thistle's lead, but passed up a glorious chance, while Gavin Morrison was only foiled by a smart save from Elgin goalkeeper Zander Clark in the latter stages.
