Strath and Glen ready for cup clash
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WITH just one week to go preparations for the new season continue apace and tomorrow the focus falls on the MacDonald Cup clash between Strathglass and Glenurquhart.
This is one of shinty’s oldest derby matches with its roots in the latter half of the 19th century and the epic clashes of the past in their early form involved upwards of 25 players on each side. These early encounters are credited with bringing in the rules of play that underpin today’s modern game.
Despite the passing of time, the rivalry is as intense as ever and after a period of Strathglass domination the pendulum has swung in Glenurquhart’s favour.
They are the current holders and last year overran the Claret and Blues courtesy of 6-1 win — a scoreline that flattered the Glen with Strathglass losing top defender Donald Fraser early in the match and then conceding four goals in the final quarter.
Strath manager Calum Duff, now in his third year in the Cannich dugout, is realistic about his side’s chances of wresting the cup back from the Glen in tomorrow’s contest, which goes ahead at Cannich with a 2pm throw-up.
"They are clear favourites," he said. "They are two leagues above us and look to be flying in pre-season, but the lads are determined to put up a show and they are relishing the challenge."
Duff hopes to have his full strength line-up at his disposal with only defender Ewan Wotherspoon a slight doubt as he tries to shake off a knee injury.
Former player Sam Todd has returned to the club and he has been a revelation in the pre-season friendlies they have had so far.
"I have been pleased with Sam in pre-season and he will bring a good energy to our midfield, where they are very strong," said Duff. "Josh Fraser has also done well at full centre, so I have no concerns in that area.
"It is a bit of a cliché, but all I can ask for is 100 per cent effort from the squad and that we compete for the 90 minutes."
For Glenurquhart’s new management team of Dave Menzies and Billy Maclean guarding against complacency will not be a problem with the squad fired up for the clash with their bitter rivals and determined to hold on to the trophy.
They saw off Skye — one of Strathglass’ main rivals for the new season — with an impressive 5-0 scoreline last Saturday and tomorrow could be strengthened by the return of John Barr, Andy Corrigan and Ally MacKintosh.
Before the main event, the reserve side’s of both teams meet at noon to contest the Ally Bhan Cup with Glenurquhart also defending this trophy.
Elsewhere, Lovat hope to be at full strength for the visit of Kilmallie and Caberfeidh and Beauly clash at Castle Leod in a second team fixture. Inverness round off their preparations with an intensive training session.
