Orkney to the max in surge to step up

Division 1 leaders Orkney Orkney are set to return to the National divisions after their shock relegation last season.

Already 11 points clear the islanders are likely to collect another maximum at Alloa tomorrow.

Garioch will certainly be hoping Orkney can maintain their 100% record, giving the Inverurie side the chance to move five points clear of Alloa, but they must first beat fellow strugglers Hillfoots at Kellands Park.

Head coach Charlie Catto is convinced they can and said: “We turned in our best performance of the season last week against second placed Dunfermline and although we lost, we were in contention until late in the game.

“We have key players coming back for this game, giving us our strongest starting line-up of this difficult campaign in our first year back in the top flight.”

Ellon are away to Glenrothes but the incentive of claiming second place is large on the mind of head coach Craig Parslow.

He said: “The club is in a good place and ready to make a bid for promotion next season.”

In Caledonia 2 North, the gloves are off as Aberdeenshire close in on promotion, boosted by their stunning 60-0 demolition of city rivals Aberdeen Grammar seconds at Rubislaw last week. Head coach Barny Henderson welcomed his side’s return to form as they take on North Police Scotland. Under championship rules neither Highland or Aberdeen Grammar 2nds can be promoted.

In Caledonia 4 North, Ellon 2nds can move farther ahead should they beat Dyce at The Meadows, setting the scene for a decider against Medics.