Watt gives backing to Cove

JAMIE Watt is warning Highland League title rivals that homeless Cove Rangers believe their natural abode is at the top of the league.

The veteran striker’s early opener sparked a 3-0 win that sent shockwaves throughout the north game, bringing Brora Rangers’ 57-game unbeaten run to an end. Daryl Nicol sealed victory with a second-half double.

Cove will spend the entire season playing away from home while they await completion of the new £5 million Calder Park.

But Watt insists they can still go all the way in the title fight.

He said: “We’ve got confidence in our team – and we are not here to finish second.”

Turriff United, meanwhile, came from a goal down to beat visiting Wick Academy.

Gary Weir netted for the Scorries after just five minutes, but Cammy Bowden levelled for Turriff ten minutes later. Jamie Beagrie’s 62nd minute finish sealed the win.

Like Brora, Formartine United sit three points adrift of the leading duo after scoring eight goals for the second week running.

Stuart Anderson, Scott Barbour and Paul Lawson all claimed doubles in the 8-2 rout at Lossiemouth with Stuart Smith and Graeme Rodger also on the mark.

A Conor Gethins double helped Nairn stay three points off the pace in a 3-0 win at Rothes, where defender Sean Webb also netted.

Clach went down 3-2 away to Buckie Thistle while Fort William grasped their first victory of the season, edging out Deveronvale 2-1 at home.

Huntly sprang a shock 2-1 victory at home to Inveurie Locos and Fraserburgh won by the same scoreline at Keith.

Forres Mechanics triumphed 2-0 in the Moray derby at Strathspey.