Fort William earn first point of the season against Strasthspey
New Fort William signing David McGurk made an instant impact on his debut last Wednesday night (August 29) as he scored the home side’s only goal, helping them to a vital 1-1 draw against fellow Highland League strugglers Strathspey Thistle.
The former Clachnacuddin captain put in an outstanding defensive performance for the Lochaber side, who picked up their first point of the season after a tough week for the club that saw them docked nine points by league bosses for fielding an ineligible player.
The hard-earned draw does little to reduce their negative points total in the league but the performance showed there are signs of improvements at the club and gives both the players and management tremendous confidence after a run of six heavy defeats.
The Fort were denied all three points as, despite taking the lead early in the match, 10-man Strathspey were able to equalise with just 10 minutes to go.
The Fort started well in the first half and looked more solid defensively than in previous matches.
And they were to finish the first half with plenty to show for their efforts after McGurk nipped in at the front post to meet the corner before glancing a header into the back of the net.
That goal gave the home crowd a lift and, with the score still 1-0 at half-time, those at Claggan Park had hope of securing a major victory.
The Fort continued to play well after the break. Fort hopes were raised again when Strathspey defender Craig MacMillan was ordered from the field of play in the 62nd minute.
However, the 10-man Strathspey side wouldn’t go down without a fight and with 10 minutes to go Thistle forward Scott Lisle scored a dramatic equaliser.
Despite that sucker punch ending to the match, the Fort can take heart from their performance and be pleased to get their first point.