Loch Ness look to win first cup final as they face league champions
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MANAGER Shane Carling says ending the North Caledonian League season by lifting a trophy is all the motivation they need in the North Caledonian Cup final on Saturday.
Loch Ness take on league champions Invergordon at Dalmore Park in Alness on Saturday at 1pm as the top two teams in the division go head to head.
After falling short of defending their league title this season, Loch Ness will be looking to win a cup competition for the first time as a North Caledonian League club.
Carling says his team are determined to finish the season on a high by lifting silverware on Saturday afternoon.
“This is the first cup final Loch Ness has played in since joining the North Caledonian League,” he said.
“We have been in either four or five semi finals, so to eventually get to one is great for the boys and the club.
“We have never won a cup competition in the North Caley, but if we turn up and have the confidence of playing against the league champions, we could.”
Invergordon have dominated the North Caledonian League season after winning the title for the seventh time in their history as well as winning the Football Times Cup earlier this season.
Loch Ness drew 4-4 with Invergordon as well as suffered a 3-0 defeat in the league this season.
Carling is under no illusion how tough Saturday’s clash will be.
“They are always feisty games and both teams will be up for it.
“Invergordon are a hard working team and we have played against them a number of times and it is always a close game.
“One mistake can cost you a game against Invergordon so we need to make sure everyone is switched on and take our chances.
“I think winning the cup would be deserved for us as it has been a cracking couple of seasons for us.
“We have challenged for the league in the past two seasons, so to win our first cup final would be a great achievement for the club.”
Carling says he could have six players missing for the final on Saturday due to injury or unavailability.
