Trio return to hand Fort William boost
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FAILURE to turn fine football into goals and a victory cost Fort William as they slid to an opening day 2-1 defeat in the Highland League against Strathspey Thistle on Saturday.
However, with three key players back, boss Ally Ewen is determined that his much-changed team can travel to Forres Mechanics this weekend with the belief that they can dig out a point or three.
The Can Cans were also unlucky on Saturday as they were edged out 1-0 at Formartine United, who are tipped by many to provide the best challenge to champions Brora Rangers, who now have former Ross County star Richard Brittain in charge.
Strathspey manager Brian Grant admitted his side "mugged" Fort at Claggan, admitting the hosts were the better side.
Despite this, Fort have now been put out of the AJG Parcels North of Scotland Cup by Rothes and now lost to the Strathspey Jags.
Josh Peters shot Strathspey in front after 17 minutes with a cool finish. Fort William ensured that was the only damage in the first half and came out with a confidence of turning the game around.
However, an unfortunate own goal as Andrew MacPherson headed into his own net handed the visitors a surprise 2-0 lead.
Ewen’s team were right back in the contest though moments later when vice-captain Darren Quigg netted from the spot after Iain Mclennan was brought down in the box by Jordan Wardrope.
MacLennan earned Fort another spot-kick late on but Quigg’s effort this time as saved by goalkeeper Sean McCarthy.
Although Strathspey boss Grant was full of praise for Fort, Ewen expected a brighter opening to the game from his side.
He added: "I was disappointed with Saturday’s result. We got off to a very slow start and couldn’t seem to get going. Strathspey bossed the midfield and prevented us from playing and deservedly took their first half lead.
"In the second half, we came out with a desire to stamp our authority on the game but a cross was headed into our own net by Andy MacPherson. We replied immediately when Darren Quigg scored the penalty.
"I had a feeling that we would go on and win the game but Michael MacCallum saved well from another penalty from Darren. We had lot of possession but could not get the ball in the net."
*** For the full interview, see this week's Lochaber News.
