A screamer from Ross Tokely helped Nairn County to a 3-0 win over Banks o’ Dee at Station Park.
Wee County boss Steven Mackay admitted his side weren’t at their best, but was pleased to keep their impressive run of form going.
Nairn are unbeaten in eight Breedon Highland league fixtures, picking up 20 points from a possible 24.
Mackay said: “We didn’t deserve to be 3-0 up on the balance of play but when things go for you they go for you.
“We worked hard and pressed well, but I thought our distribution wasn’t great.
“Outwith the goals we didn’t create many chances – but we’re delighted to keep the run going and get another win.
“The biggest thing is our attitude. We’re committed to our shape and working hard.
“To go nine games undefeated (in all competitions) after the start we had is a massive plus and we want to keep it going.”
Take a bow, Ross Tokely 🙇♂️#ncfc #nairncounty #ItsaNairnThing pic.twitter.com/saDYWTncGo
— Nairn County FC (@NairnCounty) January 8, 2023
The hosts opened the scoring after 18 minutes when they broke from a Dee free-kick with Kenny McKenzie exchanging passes with Andrew Greig before finding the net.
Midway through the first period Tokely doubled the lead with a superb volley from the edge of the box which flew into the roof of the net.
Greig added the third before half-time, weaving in from the left and picking out the top corner from 20 yards.
Dee manager Jamie Watt said: “It’s very disappointing. The first goal rocked us and the second and third goals are worldies and when things are going against you that’s what happens.
“That’s 11 goals we’ve conceded in three games, it’s too easy for teams to score against us right now.
“I didn’t think there was much between the teams, but we’ve got to get the basics right and first and foremost.”
Wick Academy 0-1 Buckie Thistle
Buckie Thistle manager Graeme Stewart hailed his defence after they defeated Wick Academy 1-0 at Harmsworth Park.
The win keeps the Jags a point behind Breedon Highland League leaders Brechin City.
Stewart has been critical of his backline in recent times, and said: “I thought we were excellent, defensively it’s as well as we’ve played all season.
“I’ve been giving the defence stick for the last six weeks or so for conceding easy goals. So the clean sheet was the most pleasing thing for me.
“Not just that, but the way they played. Joe McCabe, Hamish Munro, Ryan Fyffe, Mark McLauchlan and Lee Herbert in goal – they were all excellent.”
Wick striker Jamie Flett had an early opportunity, but headed straight at Herbert when he could have gone with a volley.
Ryan Fyffe netted the only goal on 25 minutes with a deflected header from an Andrew MacAskill corner.
In the second period, Josh Peters had a shot cleared off the line before hitting the post with the rebound.
At the other end, Herbert made a good save with his foot to turn away Mark Munro’s effort.
Wick player-manager Gary Manson said: “In our shape and off the ball I felt we were quite good, but when we get to the final third it breaks down.
“It’s been the story of our season really, we’re not creating enough chances.”