The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
SFA investigate spit claims
Highland League: Compliance officer McGlennan to write to Nairn and Vale
The Scottish Football Association is to investigate allegations Nairn County players were spat on by supporters during the Breedon Highland League Cup game at Deveronvale on Wednesday.
County midfielder Gregg Main, who scored the winning goal in extra-time for nine-man Nairn, claimed a spectator spat in his face as hecelebrated his goal in the 2 -1 victory against Deveronvale at Princess Royal Park while goalkeeper Dylan Maclean and several other players also allege they were spat on during the game.
The alleged incidents have been reported to SFA compliance officer Tony McGlennan, pictured.
An SFA spokesman said: “The compliance officer will write to the clubs next week seeking their account of what transpired.
“He will then decide whether there is sufficient evidence to take the matter to a tribunal.”
Nairn manager Ronnie Sharp branded the behaviour as classless while Vale have started its investigation into the allegations and have urged supporters to come forward and help identify those responsible.
Deveronvale released a statement yesterday and Jim Mair, chairman at the Banff club, says the club will make no further comment until they see referee Ben Dempster’s report into the match and have completed the investigation.
Va le ’ s statement r ead: “The board of Deveronvale are aware that allegations of some supporters spitting at Nairn County players during and at the end of Wednesday’s game have been made and are actively investigating these.
“Deveronvale’s board, management and players in no way condone behaviour of this nature or theuseof excessivebadlanguage either off or on the pitch. If anyone witnessed the alleged spitting incidentswewouldaskthemto contact the club with whatever information they have.
“The club will take the appropriate action should these allegations be shown to be substantiated.” Buckie Thistle can return to the top of the Press and Journal Highland League table tomorrow with a win against Wick Academy at Harmsworth Park.
Buckie forward Drew Copeland is ready for the challenge and said: “Wick are very good team so we certainly won’t be taking anything for granted.
“We will leave Aberdeen at 8am so it’s a long day and, despite the conditions, we know a win will take us back to the top of the table and that’s all the incentive we need.”
Academy manager Gordon Connelly said: “We have Marc McGregor and Andrew Hardwick returning to the squad.
“Despite the conditions we know a win will take us back to the top”
“It’s a game we are all looking forward to, although I can't see it being a classic due to the conditions we have been playing under at home of late.
“Hopefully the game will bring the best out of our players.”
Fort William’s match against Rothes at Claggan Park was postponed last night because of a waterloggged pitch.
Strathspey Thistle and Fraserburgh meet at Seafield Parkandthe Broch add new signing, 19-yearold former Ross County and Buchanhaven Hearts goalkeeper Peter Tait, son of former Peterhead number one Scott Tait, to the travelling squad.
Midfielder Jamie Beagrie is working offshore and is not available.