Orkney chance to tame their big rivals

Orkney’s dream of a quick return to the National League will take another step towards being realised tomorrow should they beat nearest challengers Dunfermline in Kirkwall.

Orkney coach Garry Coltherd said: “There is an intensity at training just now, as players compete for places. We trained in the snow last week. Promotion is ours to lose, but that’s not going to happen.”

A win for Orkney would take them 13 points clear of the Fifers, whereas the gap would be reduced to five points if the visitors were to spring a surprise.

Ellon and Aberdeen Wanderers will be battling it out for third place at The Meadows.

The teams fought out a high scoring game last time they met, Wanderers edging through 34-29 at Groats Road.

Ellon coach Craig Parslow and Wanderers director of rugby, Russell Arthur were keen to make their cases for claiming the bragging rights.

Ellon are four points ahead of their Aberdeen rivals, but have played a game more. Both camps predict a close encounter.

Garioch, boosted by their first win of the season last week at home to Hillfoots, travel to Grangemouth, who will pose a greater challenge to the Inverurie team’s battle to stay up.

In Caley 2 North, Aberdeenshire will be promoted should they claim maximum points away to Mackie FPs, but would need North Police Scotland to lose to Moray.

The game of the day in Caley 4 North is at Kings College where Medics and 2nd Ellon meet in a title decider.

Ellon will win the title if they win but the duel goes on should the students prevail.