Clachnacuddin and Forres Mechanics Set for North of Scotland Cup Final

The North of Scotland Cup final is set for March 2, 2024, at Station Park in Nairn, where Clachnacuddin will face Forres Mechanics. Both clubs are eager to secure their first trophy in over a decade, making this clash a highly anticipated event in Highland League football.

Striker Troy Cooper has emerged as a key player for Clachnacuddin, having scored 11 goals this season. Cooper’s journey from fan to player is remarkable. He spent four years in the army with the Black Watch regiment before transitioning to football. “When you’re in the army, you can’t really commit to anything in football,” he explained. “Being in the army was good, but I couldn’t really commit to football.”

Growing up just around the corner from Grant Street, Cooper recalls watching Clach win their last trophy, the Highland League Cup, in 2014. Now, he aims to help his local team reclaim glory. “To be involved in cup finals with Clach is a dream,” he said. “It would mean a lot to me to win the cup with Clach.”

Meanwhile, Calum Frame leads the charge for Forres Mechanics as the top-scorer in northern football with 15 goals in 16 matches this season. Frame, who joined Forres two years ago, hopes to repay the club’s faith in him by securing cup victory. “It’s brilliant to be in the final,” he said. “We need to take this chance to win something after 14 years without a trophy.”

Frame has benefited from a positional switch this season, moving to a central role after mainly playing on the right last year. “Playing centrally has made a big difference,” he noted. “If I can score in the final, I’ll equal my tally from last season.”

The history of the North of Scotland Cup adds to the significance of this final. Forres last claimed the trophy in 2009, with their eighth victory coming from a dominant performance against Wick Academy. Clachnacuddin’s last triumph came in 2014 when they defeated city rivals Inverness Caledonian Thistle in a thrilling final.

As both teams prepare for the match, the stakes are high. A victory not only brings silverware but also revitalizes local pride and community support. Both Cooper and Frame understand the importance of this occasion and the weight of expectations.

Cooper reflects on his journey, stating, “At that time, I couldn’t have imagined being involved in games like that as a player.” The sentiment is echoed by Frame, who aims to end a trophy drought for Forres.

In other Highland League developments, Brora Rangers manager Steven Mackay has secured the signing of Ross Draper to bolster their title defense and promotion bid. Draper, a seasoned player known for his experience and leadership, is seen as a crucial addition to the squad.

As preparation continues for the cup final, anticipation builds among fans and players alike. The clash between Clachnacuddin and Forres Mechanics promises to be a memorable encounter, with both teams aiming to leave their mark on the competition and their communities.