Boss says Brora Rangers are back in title hunt as they prepare for far north derby
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MANAGER Craig Campbell says Brora Rangers’ title defence is looking stronger than a couple of weeks ago after the Highland League was blown wide open.
Buckie Thistle halted Fraserburgh’s title charge last week with a shock 3–1 victory at Bellslea.
Brora Rangers managed to keep pace with three successive victories to remain within touching distance of the top two, three points off in third place.
They will be looking to close down Fraserburgh and Buckie when they face Wick Academy in the far north derby at Dudgeon Park on Saturday.
After the disappointment of a 2–0 home defeat to Brechin City last month, Campbell has been pleased with the response of his team.
He says a successful defence of the Highland League title is now more realistic than compared to the start of the month.
But he knows they can’t afford any more slip-ups.
“A few weeks ago after defeat to Brechin, we did feel that it was an uphill task,” said Campbell.
“But the way results have gone, especially Buckie beating Fraserburgh, it tightens up a little bit.
“But we are under no illusions, we can’t afford any slip-ups.
“There is a lot of football to be played but also a lot of tough games.
“We will keep taking each game as it comes and see where it gets us. We need to take care of our next league games, I don’t like looking too far ahead, but it could set up for a big March in the league if we can get a few decent results.”
Brora Rangers have had the upper hand on Wick Academy in recent years and have not lost to the Scorries since a North of Scotland Cup first round defeat on penalties at Dudgeon Park back in 2015.
Campbell knows the clash between Caithness and Sutherland clubs is always a fiery fixture.
But he says his players must maintain their composure in what can be a volatile atmosphere.
“It is always a tough game against them, it is a derby and we always get a physical game off Wick.
“It will not be any different come Saturday and the way the weather is going it could make it a bit more tasty as well.
“We have played Wick a lot in the cup as well as league and we want to keep the unbeaten record going.
“We are going into the game with confidence but we will not be complacent.”
Defender Josh Meekings is set to return to the first team squad after a successful training session during the week.
Mark Nicolson could be a doubt for the derby this weekend and is expected to undergo a late fitness test.
But it is likely that winger Harry Hennem, on loan from Inverness Caledonian Thistle, will miss tomorrow’s clash as it is believed he fractured his ankle during a training session.
While not confirmed, Campbell says it is feared that Hennem has suffered an injury that will keep him out long term.
