FORT FC RESERVES JOIN MALLAIG IN WEST HIGHLAND AMATEUR FOOTBALL LEAGUE

Iain Ferguson

The former Skye and Lochalsh Amateur Football Association (AFA) not only has a new name, but a new team joining its league, in the shape of Fort William FC reserves. At its last AGM the Association decided to admit the newly created Fort team after much discussion and assurances that none of the 1st team players will supplement the squad.

As the Association now featured three mainland and five island teams it was also decided to change the name to West Highland AFA tor reflect this fact. The new addition also restored the league to eight teams, replacing Glenelg which dropped out over a year ago.

Mallaig FC has been a long-term and very successful member, with many victories to their credit, adding the Fort newcomers to that list in their first encounter, which had to be played in Mallaig due to Claggan Park being frozen.

In another new move it is also planned to hold matches on Friday evenings to ease the burden on players over the weekends.

Reserves Manager, former Celtic Supporters Club, Mallaig and Nevis Range player, Paul Macinnes oversaw pre-season training, offering the opportunity for any interested footballers between the ages of 16-28 the chance of a place.

He said: “We had a great turnout and have put together a good squad with a good spread of ages and we’ll be using some of the older heads to help keep the youngsters on track. The aim is to compete for the league but also to put up a good fight.” but also to put up a good fight.” players to play men’s football and develop to become with a view to standard of league and this squad

First team manager Alan Gray also welcomed the development saying:“Having a second strong side in place offers a platform for young players to play men’s football and develop to become with a view to becoming members of the first team squad.

“They will be tested in a good standard of league and this squad will bridge the gap from U16’s to first team level.”