We’re desperate to avoid a shock result, says Brora manager
Brora Rangers manager Steven Mackay has said his treble-winners are desperate not to be on the receiving end of a shock result.
He admitted the Cattachs were “slightly fortunate” to edge a 2-1 victory in the midweek Highland League derby against Wick Academy.
Next up is a home game on Saturday against Nairn County, a week and a half after Brora eased to a 5-1 win when the sides met in a North of Scotland Cup tie at Station Park.
Mackay believes the first few rounds of fixtures this season have demonstrated that nothing can be taken for granted.
Speaking after Wednesday night’s hard-fought encounter at Harmsworth Park, he said: “It was an important win for us because we are down to the bare bones.
“You’ve just got to try and get as many wins as you possibly can, because every full-time in the Highland League so far this season there has been a shock, and we are desperate not to be on the end of one.
“You saw Strathspey Thistle beating Buckie 4-1 tonight and it was the same at the weekend – there’s constantly teams that are beating the so-called bigger teams.
“This league is so competitive and anyone can beat anyone on any given day. So to come up here on a Wednesday night with a tight, tight squad and win, I’ve got to be pleased.”
Brora made the breakthrough on 73 minutes when substitute Aidan Wilson got on the end of a floated cross from Jordan MacRae and nodded it past goalkeeper Lewis Gallacher.
Three minutes later the Scorries were level when substitute Euan Kennedy arrowed in a shot from the right edge of the penalty box.
Brora’s winner arrived after 81 minutes when Tony Dingwall twisted and turned on the right before slamming the ball low into the net.
In stoppage time Wick’s Ryan Campbell was sent off for a second yellow card.
Mackay said: “Wick are much improved. Gaz [Gary Manson] has brought in some good young players and it bodes well for the rest of the season.
“They worked their socks off. I think we were slightly fortunate to come away with a win.”
On the decisive goal, Mackay added: “Thankfully the game swung back in our favour with a moment of magic from Tony Dingwall – great feet in the box, great composure and a good finish.”
Wick manager Gary Manson said: “You don’t always get what you deserve when you play football, and tonight was a prime example of that. On another night we walk away with at least a point.
“The players gave as good as they got against a team that won every single trophy last season.”