Franci Hutchison says Sutherland started as they mean to go on after league win
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SUTHERLAND Women’s Football Club made history by winning their first ever game in the Highlands and Islands League with a 5–1 victory at Nairn St Ninian.
The Helmsdale outfit wasted no time finding the net as within 60 seconds Rachel Sutherland scored a long range effort.
Tracey Montgomery doubled Sutherland’s advantage in the 19th minute with Sirena Whitehead making it 3–0 shortly after the half hour mark.
Montgomery scored twice in the second half to complete her hat trick with Darcey Woodman grabbing a consolation for Nairn, five minutes before full time.
For Sutherland player Franci Hutchison, it was an excellent start to the campaign.
“The 5-1 win against Nairn was a huge boost for the team with it being our first game in the league and the first time playing competitively as a team,” said Hutchison.
“It took a bit of time to settle after our early goal.
“But once we got into the game we gelled as a team and communicated well, including advice from coaches at the sideline.
“We’ve started off the season as we mean to go on and I think everyone played well.
“As a squad, Nairn have improved a lot over the last couple of years so it’s great to see that progression too.”
Lochinver-based Hutchison was part of the Clachnacuddin team which won the league in 2019.
But she’s delighted to join a club based in her own county.
“I feel lucky to have been welcomed into such a friendly, talented squad and have high hopes for the rest of the season,” said Hutchison.
“Travelling back and forth from Lochinver for training and games is well worth it for the standard of football.
“Having played for other teams in the Highland area, previously for Clachnacuddin, it feels right that I’m playing for a team that actually ties with where I’m from.”
