Chances go a begging at Harlaw Park
Inverurie Loco Works 2 Fort William 0 Highland League
Fort William were not without their chances in Saturday’s Highland League match against Inverurie Loco’s but ultimately goals in the 75th minute from Ryan Broadhurst and 76th from Kieran Shanks gave the hosts the three points.
Home keeper Andy Reid was kept busy in the early stages. Yves Zama forced an early double save before Abdullahi Ahmed got in on the act - clipping the crossbar at a narrow angle to deny him the opener.
At the other end, some excellent defending kept the hosts at bay and the teams went in at half-time with everything to play for.
Following a more sustained attacking effort after the re-start, Loco’s broke the deadlock in the 75th minute when Broadhurst finished from close range and a minute later Shanks headed home a free kick.
Fort William can take encouragement from this and other recent performances but remain at the foot of the table.
▎ Following a number of incidents at last weekend’s games, the Scottish Highland Football League released the following statement:
‘The Highland League has always prided itself on its inclusiveness, its role in the communities in which it exists and its acceptance of diversity.
‘However, recent weeks have seen a worrying trend with instances of racial abuse occurring at SHFL matches.
‘This is completely unacceptable and has no place in the Highland League or, indeed, anywhere.
‘The message is quite simple to those who use such language – you are not welcome at Highland League matches, or matches anywhere, so stay away as you have no place in a modern society.
‘To all Highland League supporters – be aware of this issue and point out anyone who resorts to racist language.
‘Remember, for bad things to survive, all that’s needed is that good people do nothing.
‘It’s time for the good people to stand up and be counted.’