Nairn County Secures Third Straight Win with 4-0 Victory Over Rothes

Nairn County achieved a decisive 4-0 victory over Rothes, marking their third consecutive win in the Breedon Highland League. The match took place at Station Park, where goals from Ben Barron, Andrew Greig, Calum MacKay, and Angus Dey secured the comfortable win. This result highlights Nairn’s impressive home form, with 13 points earned from a possible 18 at Station Park. In contrast, Rothes remains without a win this season, their last victory dating back to November 2, 2022.

Early in the match, Nairn showcased their attacking intent. MacKay’s free-kicks caused early trouble for Rothes, with one shot narrowly missing the target and another being saved by goalkeeper Stewart Black. Nairn nearly took the lead in the 12th minute when Sam Gordon‘s cross found MacKay, but he headed wide from a promising position. Rothes responded with a free-kick from Thomas Brady, which was saved by Nairn’s Lewis Munro.

Nairn broke the deadlock in the 26th minute. Gordon cut in from the right and delivered a cross that Barron converted from close range, despite Rothes’ protests for an offside call. Just before half-time, Nairn doubled their lead. A well-placed cross from Jamie Carnihan found Greig, who finished expertly into the bottom right corner.

As the second half commenced, Rothes needed a goal to stay in the match. However, Nairn maintained their dominance. In the 58th minute, MacKay headed in the third goal from a Greig cross. Rothes then had their best opportunity in the 65th minute when a long ball from Owen Alexander led to a shot from Ruairi Duncan, but Munro made a critical save.

Nairn further extended their lead in the 68th minute when Dey executed a brilliant finish from the edge of the area after breaking through a couple of challenges. Although the match was effectively decided, both teams had chances in the closing moments. Greig’s free-kick and a shot from substitute Ben Kelly went close for Nairn, while a cross from Thomson for Rothes was deflected over the bar by defender Callum Maclean.

Other Highland League Matches

In other matches across the Highland League, Formartine United defeated Buckie Thistle 3-1, thanks to a hat-trick from Hamish Ritchie. This victory puts Formartine just three points behind league leaders Brora Rangers, who did not compete this weekend.

Clachnacuddin and Deveronvale played to a 1-1 draw, with Troy Cooper scoring for Clachnacuddin and Jamie MacLellan equalizing for Deveronvale. Meanwhile, Huntly ended a four-match losing streak with a 1-1 draw against Banks o’ Dee.

In other fixtures, Fraserburgh continued their winning streak with a 2-0 victory over Keith, while Inverurie Locos secured a similar scoreline against Lossiemouth.

In the Highland League Cup, Brora Rangers showcased their prowess with a resounding 6-0 victory over Strathspey Thistle, featuring two goals from Shane Sutherland. Forres Mechanics also progressed emphatically, defeating Wick Academy 6-0, with Calum Frame netting a hat-trick.

The results indicate a competitive season ahead in the Highland League, with teams vying for top spots and cup advancements as play continues.