Last Saturday our young players from Kinlochbervie Camanachd were invited down to Kincraig to play a friendly match against Strathspey Camanachd, a newly formed senior men’s team. As it was not a school team our side were playing, we invited some of our own ex-school players to join us, Kyle Clark, our first Captain and Nathan and Struan Kish who now live in Kincraig all donned the KLB colours to take up the challenge. On arrival at the pitch some of ourplayers were slightly intimidated by the size of the opposition but after a friendly welcome and the news that two players from Lovat, whose game had been cancelled, were to join KLB  for the match, nerves were soon settled. It was a very tough first half with us going down 5-0 to the sheer force of Strathspey but after a half time pep talk from the two Lovat players and our coach, Duncan, who was also referring the friendly, we went back on with renewed enthusiasm, what we didn’t have in size wecould make up for in speed. The second half was as fast moving and hard going as the first but  KLB  showed great determination and were spurred on by a great goal from Lovat player, Tom. Donald Mackay also scored two goals, one a fantastic ball taken in the air from a shy by Taylor Mackay. Strathspey were however not going to be beaten and they also scored 3 goals in the second half. There were a few missed chances from KLB’s Kyle Clark and Taylor Mackay but even as the final whistle blew with a 8-3 win to the Strathspey side, our young KLB team were in high spirits and pleased with their second half performance. They were commended on their enthusiasm and fitness and were told by members of Strathspey that for a young side they look to have a very bright future if they continue to play together in such a way. It was a great day of Shinty for us, pupils and adults and it is hopeful that there will be a return match at home with the Speyside team in May and KLB also hope to see them at the Far North Shinty Sixes on Saturday 4^th June, in Scourie.

The KLB & Strathspey Sides