Beckwith praises 'professional' Clach after becoming Highlands and Islands champions
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Bobby Beckwith hailed Clach Womens’ professionalism after winning the inaugural Highlands and Islands League.
The Lilywhites’ head coach saw his team seal title success with an 8-0 hammering of Nairn Ladies on Sunday.
It has been quite a journey for the new Inverness outfit, formed less than a year ago from the ashes of Ross County women’s team.
From initial scepticism Beckwith, the former Elgin City assistant manager, told how his squad won him over through dedication and willingness to learn.
Until a few weeks ago, Lewis and Harris had led the new eight team division, but the islanders’ withdrawal paved the way for Clach glory.
“The girls had a little celebration in the dressing room,” Beckwith admitted.
“It was great to get over the line. We’re assuming the trophy presentation will be on the last day of the season at Clach Park against Brora Rangers.
“It has been a big learning curve for us all, but in a good way. We can see now how committed they are, and that reflects in performances.
“When I first went into it, to be honest my expectations weren’t that high, but the team has just got better and better.
“It is great to see younger players improve and senior players discover that spark again.
“The energy and enthusiasm of the younger girls has motivated the older players and they’ve helped the younger ones get better.
“It is very rewarding. It is not just the teams and players but the league itself that is developing and, hopefully, more teams will join.”
Clach, rated as unbeaten now that Lewis and Harris have gone, still have to play Caithness away on Sunday, September 22, before the Brora finale.
The Nairn win was straightforward, but Beckwith praised the bottom of the table visitors.
“We beat them by a big scoreline a few weeks before, but they had a really good shape this time and played better. It was only 3-0 at half time, but comfortable in the end.”
