A Wayne Mackintosh winner saw Nairn County edge out Huntly in an eventful but ill-tempered Highland League match at Station Park.
Huntly captain Gary McGowan and midfielder Ross Still were both taken to hospital after picking up injuries during the first half. They were released on Saturday night, McGowan with severe bruising to his cheek, while Still broke his nose and had a head gash.
County opened the scoring after only three minutes when Jordan Macrae set up Gary Kerr, who netted with a controlled finish.
McGowan was replaced after 23 minutes after a challenge with Nairn’s Glenn Main before Huntly were awarded a penalty when Sean Webb was bundled over inside the box but Robbie Duncanson fired wide.
It got worse for the visitors after 37 minutes when Still was forced off after colliding with Kerr.
Huntly levelled six minutes into the second half when a great delivery from Blair Johnston was headed home by Glenn Murison for his second goal in three games.
County were back in front four minutes later when a long free kick from Gregg Main was headed in by Mackintosh.
Having seen his side take six points off Huntly this season, County manager Ronnie Sharp said: “It was like a derby game with the former Nairn players in the opposition team. It wasn’t the prettiest of games but I’m delighted to get three points. After conceding the equaliser, we knew the next goal would be crucial. We scored soon after, gained confidence and finished the game better.”
Huntly co-manager Tommy Wilson said: “I don’t think we competed in the first half, Nairn bullied us a bit. After getting back on level terms, we shot ourselves in the foot by losing a poor goal.”