Nairn County Dominates Rothes 4-0, Secures Third Straight Win

Nairn County achieved a resounding victory over Rothes, winning 4-0 in the Breedon Highland League at Station Park. This win marks Nairn’s third consecutive victory, their first such streak since November 2023. The team has showcased impressive home form, securing 13 points from a possible 18 at their home ground.

The match began with Nairn applying early pressure. Calum MacKay’s free-kicks posed a significant threat, with one narrowly missing the target and another being tipped over the crossbar by Rothes goalkeeper Stewart Black. Nairn had a golden opportunity to take the lead when Sam Gordon’s cross found MacKay, but he headed wide when he should have scored.

Despite Rothes attempting to counter, they struggled to find their rhythm. Nairn’s breakthrough came in the 26th minute when Gordon’s cross-cum-shot was converted by Ben Barron from close range, despite Rothes’ appeals for offside. Shortly after, Black prevented a second goal by intercepting Gordon’s shot before Rothes captain Brodie Mitchell fired over from distance.

Nairn doubled their lead just before halftime. A well-placed delivery from Jamie Carnihan found Andrew Greig, who skillfully maneuvered past his marker before finishing with his left foot into the bottom corner.

As the second half commenced, Rothes needed an early goal to revive their hopes. However, Nairn continued to dominate the play. In the 58th minute, they scored their third goal when Greig delivered a cross that found MacKay, who headed the ball into the net. Moments later, Rothes had their best opportunity when Owen Alexander’s long ball set up Ruairi Duncan, but Lewis Munro made a brilliant save, preventing a goal.

Nairn sealed their victory with a fourth goal when Angus Dey showcased his skill by evading several challenges and striking the ball into the top left corner from the edge of the area. Although the match was decided, both teams had chances in the closing moments, with Greig and substitute Ben Kelly coming close for Nairn, while Rothes’ Thomson nearly found the net with a shot that hit the side-netting.

In other Highland League matches, Formartine United triumphed over Buckie Thistle 3-1, thanks to a hat-trick from Hamish Ritchie, bringing Formartine within three points of leaders Brora Rangers. Clachnacuddin drew 1-1 with Deveronvale, while Huntly also ended a four-match losing streak with a 1-1 draw against Banks o’ Dee.

Fraserburgh continued their strong performance with a 2-0 win against Keith, while Inverurie Locos won 2-0 against Lossiemouth, securing their second victory of the season.

In the Highland League Cup, Brora Rangers delivered an impressive 6-0 victory over Strathspey Thistle, with Shane Sutherland netting twice. Forres Mechanics also advanced with a commanding 6-0 win against Wick Academy, highlighted by a hat-trick from Calum Frame.

These results underscore the competitive nature of the Breedon Highland League and highlight the early-season performances of various teams as they vie for top positions.