Strathspey Thistle FC

HOME MATCH v BUCKIE THISTLE FC
BREEDON HIGHLAND LEAGUE
SEAFIELD PARK, GRANTOWN-ON-SPEY, PH26 3HE
WEDNESDAY 18 FEBRUARY 2026 – KO 8pm

On Wednesday night, weather permitting,and I am no meteorologist, but it’s not looking good as we have had a fresh covering of snow and temperatures are forecast again for -6 degrees tonight, we will hopefully welcome players, officials and supporters of Buckie Thistle FC to Seafield Park for our second meeting of the season in the Breedon Highland League and our first home game since the second week of December!
Buckie currently sit in seventh place in the league on thirty-seven points, twelve ahead of us but with how results have been going and taking into account our last meeting when we had a convincing win, who knows what the score will be.

Our head coach Ryan Esson will have more or less a full squad at his disposal, but without Filip Franczak who is still recovering from injury, and possibly some with work committments so hopefully we can get a repeat amount of points from the game. 

If any of the Buckie travelling support wants a resumé of what’s available in Grantown – click here – and remember our Mackellar Suite, situated within the ground is available for pre and aprés match alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and foodstuffs as well as our snack bar.

There will be a pitch inspection at midday tomorrow (Wednesday) so please check with our social media for up to date news.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

We have been informed by the SHFL of another batch of re-arranged fixtures so our itinerary for the rest of the season looks like this  – there are still two games to be arranged, as according to my records we still have Huntly (H) and Brora (A) to play.

Saturday Feb 21 v Forres Mechanics (A)
Wednesday Feb 25 v Rothes (H) 8pm
Saturday Feb 28 v Fraserburgh (H) 2pm
Wednesday Mar 4 v Clachnacuddin (H) 8pm
Saturday Mar 7 v Inverurie Locos (A) 3pm
Wednesday Mar 11 v Inverurie Locos (H) 8pm
Saturday Mar 14 v Wick Academy (H) 2pm
Wednesday Mar 18 v Banks O’Dee (A) 8pm
Saturday Mar 21 v Nairn County (A) 3pm
Wednesday Mar 25 v Keith (A) 8pm
Saturday April 4 v Turriff United (H) 3pm
Saturday April 11 v Lossiemouth (A) 3pm

As you can see we will be playing every Saturday and Wednesday until the end of the season so it’s going to be a tough shift for the boys…..and that’s not counting their day jobs during the week…..ah….the joys of playing football in the North of Scotland!!

FUND-RAISING SPORTSMAN’S DINNER  – Saturday 2nd May 2026

We are delighted to announce the return of the Strathspey Thistle Football Club Sportsman’s Dinner which will take place on Saturday 2nd May 2026, at Seafield Park, Grantown-on-Spey, hosted in a luxury marquee, with champagne on arrival
The evening will be hosted by Ian Thain and will feature two fantastic guest speakers.

Firstly, Tam Cowan, one of Scotland’s most recognisable football voices, renowned for his sharp wit, storytelling, and unrivalled insight into the game.
He will be joined by Gordon Smith, former Scotland international and highly respected figure in Scottish football, who brings a wealth of experience and entertaining sporting stories.

Guests can look forward to a three-course dining experience with wine, alongside sporting stories and entertainment, plus a grand auction, raffle and player end of season awards presentation.

Saturday 2nd May 2026
7:00pm – late
£75 per person + VAT (tables of 10 available)

Tickets are available via our club social media channels
by emailing hospitality@strathspeythistlefc.uk
or by contacting Laura on 07972 595584 

Early booking is strongly advised as this promises to be a very popular event. We look forward to welcoming you for what will be a memorable evening.

Thats about it – back with a preview of our trip to Forres on Friday.

HOME MATCH v INVERURIE LOCO WORKS FC
BREEDON HIGHLAND LEAGUE
SEAFIELD PARK, GRANTOWN-ON-SPEY, PH26 3HE
SATURDAY 14 FEBRUARY 2026 – KO 2PM

Before we start previewing Saturday’s match I thought it would be good to review the Club’s very generous weekend with …at last…after 138 weeks of our fund raising LOTTERY the jackpot, a record, of £14,900 was won ….and in Brora we gave seven goals to Brora Rangers!!  ……….More on these later.

We welcome players, officials and fans of Inverurie Loco Works FC to Seafield Park in what will be, if the weather behaves, our first home game since 13 December – two calendar months!
This will be our first league meeting against the Locos this season as we were meant to play this game on 4 October, but that was the weekend of Storm Amy and all matches bar one scheduled for that Saturday were postponed.
This will be Inverurie’s first game since the end of January, when they drew 4-4 at home to Nairn County, as their last two games have fallen foul of the weather so I would imagine all concerned will be champing at the bit for a game of fitba’.
Inverurie have not been enjoying their best season, and currently sit in sixteenth position having played twenty-four games accumulating fifteen points as opposed to ourselves two positions above them on twenty-five points from twenty-one games.

So it means another hard fought and exciting game at Seafield Park….remember the kick-off time is 2PM – and fingers crossed Mother Nature behaves!!!

If any of the Inverurie travelling support wants a resumé of what’s available in Grantown – click here -also our Snack Bar situated in the ground has non-alcoholic beverages and foodstuffs and in addition also situated within the ground, is the Mackellar Suite, which is available for pre and aprés match alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and foodstuffs.

At the time of writing most of the Jags’ squad will be available for selection although captain James McShane will be missing as a result of being sent off last week.

LAST SATURDAY’S LEAGUE GAME  v BRORA RANGERS at DUDGEON PARK.

Unfortunately, we have had an unsuccessful run of three away games in a row, two against the then, teams at the top of the league in Formartine Utd and last Saturday, Brora Rangers.
It is never one of our successful parks to visit, it was probably the worst we have played for a while, admittedly it’s been a stop-start couple of months but I don’t think any of the Jags’ contingent came away from Dudgeon Park other than bitterly disappointed.

We were two down after nineteen minutes and although James McShane came close from a free kick, Gary Pullen added a third on his Brora debut soon after.
Josh Race scored another very decent goal for the Jags but Brora scored a fourth before half-time.

After the break Brora scored again in the fifty-second minute and shortly after that James McShane was sent off for pulling down Shane Sutherland denying him a goal scoring opportunity. Although we had a couple of minor chances latterly, Brora showed no mercy and added a further two goals.
Jags’ boss Ryan Esson told the P&J that he didn’t know where to start with his analysis of the game but concluded that if a team conceded goals like we did we can’t expect to get anything out of the game!

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WELCOME BECK DEANO

Strathspey Thistle FC are delighted to announce the permanent signing of Dean Stewart from New Elgin Football Club on a deal running until the summer of 2028.

The 28-year-old defender arrives with valuable Highland League experience, having previously featured for Lossiemouth. He’s also no stranger to the Strathy Jags after spending time on loan with the club at the start of 2025.
Dean joined the squad at training on Tuesday and will be included in Saturday’s matchday squad, subject to SFA approval.
The club would like to place on record its thanks to New Elgin FC for their cooperation and professionalism in getting this deal completed.
Manager Ryan Esson said “We’re really pleased to get Dean signed on a permanent deal. He already knows the club and most of the group, which is a big plus for us. He’s an experienced defender at this level with a great personality and will add real competition and strength to our back line”.

Welcome back to Seafield Park, Deano!

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DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

As ever at this time of year we can never guarantee that matches will go ahead so please check our social media posts.

Wednesday Feb 18 v Buckie Thistle (H) 8pm
Saturday Feb 21 v Forres Mechanics (A)
Wednesday Feb 25 v Rothes (H) 8pm
Saturday Feb 28 v Fraserburgh (H) 2pm
Wednesday Mar 4 v Clachnacuddin (H) 8pm
Saturday Mar 7 v Inverurie Locos (A) 3pm
Saturday Mar 14 v Wick Academy (H) 2pm
Saturday Mar 21 v Nairn County (A) 3pm

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LOTTERY WON – £14,900 JACKPOT
Well…. after 138 weeks the jackpot has finally been won!
A HUGE CONGRATULATIONS to Kirsty Almond from Burnley, who has won our incredible £14,900 jackpot!
The wait is now over and we couldn’t be happier to be celebrating such a brilliant win.
She spoke on Tuesday to Laura, our Commercial Director about her win
Kirsty’s eight year-old daughter has epilepsy and uses a wheelchair, so Kirsty had been planning to re-arrange her house and bedroom for some time, and said her win could not have come at a better time so she was absolutely delighted.
Kirsty’s winning numbers were 5 – 8 – 11 – 14 – 17.

Strathspey Thistle Football Club would like to thank most profusely everyone who has purchased a ticket during the past 138 weeks, which ended with the record pay out from our fund raising lottery draw. As we have been intimating over the past 120 weeks or so on this very page, we will be changing how the lottery is played. We appreciate that after such a high jackpot there is a high probability not everyone who played last week, will be playing this week.
We thank you very much for your support over the past couple of years that the game had been in play – and hope that you will rejoin us in the future sometime.

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NEW LOTTERY GAME STARTS AT £1000 JACKPOT
It will still cost £1 per attempt per week (or as many attempts you wish to pay for – you are not restricted to one). But what now follows on as from this week the following changes come into effect.

If you wish to play online CLICK HERE

There will still be a weekly prize of £100 for a consolation winner if their entry matches four of the five numbers drawn, however instead of a weekly increase in the jackpot of £100, this will now be increased monthly. 
The game is to forecast 5 winning numbers, which are drawn at random, from 1-20.
If you are not playing online and have physically purchased a paper ticket the 5 numbers chosen are to be marked by a cross (X).

1. The Jackpot prize starts at £1,000 and the game continues until it is won and starts afresh. As applicable, the Jackpot increases by £100 immediately after the first draw in each calendar month, up to a maximum of £5,000. The Jackpot is then capped at £5,000 until it is won in the weekly draw. 
2. If more than one player has 5 winning numbers, the Jackpot will be divided equally among the winning players. 
3. Should no entry forecast all 5 winning numbers, then any player matching 4 numbers will be entered into a draw for a single Consolation Prize of £100. 
4. THE DRAW will take place every SUNDAY at 7pm unless otherwise advised.
5. The entrant named on the ticket must be at least 16 years of age.
6. All winners will be notified

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THAT’S ALL FOLKS – REMEMBER OUR NEXT HOME IS ON WEDNESDAY NIGHT – BUCKIE THISTLE ARE THE VISITORS-  KO 8pm

AWAY MATCH v BRORA RANGERS FC
BREEDON HIGHLAND LEAGUE
DUDGEON PARK, KW9 6QN
SATURDAY 7 FEBRUARY 2026 – KICK OFF 3pm

Off up the A9 we go to Brora, and our Breedon Highland League match with Brora Rangers FC, currently on top of the league with forty-nine points from twenty-two games, one point ahead of Formartine Utd.
The Cattach’s last games against Keith and Rothes have resulted in draws, which followed a fine 4-1 defeat of Buckie Thistle two weeks ago….but a loss away to Nairn on Wednesday night – so you just can’t forecast what is going to happen results wise this season…for all teams!!!
The last time we played a league match against Brora was at the start of the season when we were well beaten but a lot has changed with regards our squad and we hope on Saturday we can put on a performance similar to our last match against the then league leaders Brechin when we managed to take all three points.

As ever we wish Ryan all the best and we should arrive at Dudgeon Park with more or less a full squad, with hopefully Filip Franczak and Dan Whitehorn back from injury.

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WEDNESDAY NIGHT’S GAME v DEVERONVALE at BANFF.
You couldn’t have wished for worse weather for a football match.

We had the wind behind us in the first half and were first to threaten the opposition goal with Shaun Morrison’s shot just missing the far post – but after seven minutes we found ourselves one down and even though we went close a couple of times before the interval it was 1-0 to the Vale at half-time.
As is now normal, Jags’ keeper Danny Gillan had a cracking save, this time from Vale’s Sam McLean, but then shortly after that, Jags’ debutant Andrew MacLeod equalised from twenty-five yards.

Even although the Jags looked the most likely to score, and everyone thought that the game would result in a draw, Vale sub Ryan Park grabbed an eighty-sixth minute winner – much to the despair of the Jags’ players, officials and supporters who thought they were worth at least a point!….

As it was only our third game since the middle of November, Jags’ head coach was disappointed in the result but was generally pleased with the way the team is shaping up with both Rorie MacLeod and Andrew Macleod making their debuts.

Now we look forward to an exceptionally busy six weeks.

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DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

As ever at this time of year we can never guarantee that matches will go ahead so please check our social media posts.
Saturday Feb 7 v Brora Rangers (A) 3pm
Saturday Feb 14 v Inverurie Locos (H) 2pm
Wednesday Feb 18 v Buckie Thistle (H) 8pm
Saturday Feb 21 v Forres Mechanics (A)
Wednesday Feb 25 v Rothes (H) 8pm
Saturday Feb 28 v Fraserburgh (H) 2pm
Wednesday Mar 4 v Clachnacuddin (H) 8pm
Saturday Mar 7 v Inverurie Locos (A) 3pm
Saturday Mar 14 v Wick Academy (H) 2pm
Saturday Mar 21 v Nairn County (A) 3pm

HOME MATCH HOSPITALITY

Contact Laura for more information please :
hospitality@strathspeythistlefc.uk

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LOTTERY HITS £14,900 JACKPOT

Could someone please, please, please win our fundraising Lottery – here’s your chance to play online before Sunday night’s draw ….just click here 

LOTTERY CH-CH-CHANGES
After the current jackpot has been won therefore completing that game, there will be some changes.
There will still be a weekly prize of £100 for a consolation winner if their entry matches four of the five numbers drawn, however instead of a weekly increase in the jackpot of £100, this will now be increased monthly. 
The game is to forecast 5 winning numbers, which are drawn at random, from 1-20.
If you are not playing online and have physically purchased a paper ticket the 5 numbers chosen are to be marked by a cross (X).

1. The Jackpot prize starts at £1,000 and the game continues until it is won and starts afresh. As applicable, the Jackpot increases by £100 immediately after the first draw in each calendar month, up to a maximum of £5,000. The Jackpot is then capped at £5,000 until it is won in a weekly draw. 
2. If more than one player has 5 winning numbers, the Jackpot will be divided equally among the winning players. 
3. Should no entry forecast all 5 winning numbers, then any player matching 4 numbers will be entered into a draw for a single Consolation Prize of £100. 
4. THE DRAW will take place every SUNDAY at 7pm unless otherwise advised.
5. The entrant named on the ticket must be at least 16 years of age.
6. All winners will be notified

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FUND-RAISING SPORTSMAN’S DINNER – AS ANNOUNCED LAST WEEK

Put this date in your diary now –  Saturday 2nd May 2026

We are delighted to announce the return of the Strathspey Thistle Football Club Sportsman’s Dinner which will take place on Saturday 2nd May 2026, at Seafield Park, Grantown-on-Spey, hosted in a luxury marquee, with champagne on arrival
The evening will be hosted by Ian Thain and will feature two fantastic guest speakers.
Firstly, Tam Cowan, one of Scotland’s most recognisable football voices, renowned for his sharp wit, storytelling, and unrivalled insight into the game.
He will be joined by Gordon Smith, former Scotland international and highly respected figure in Scottish football, who brings a wealth of experience and entertaining sporting stories.
Guests can look forward to a three-course dining experience with wine, alongside sporting stories and entertainment, plus a grand auction, raffle and player end of season awards presentation.

 Saturday 2nd May 2026
7:00pm – late
£75 per person + VAT (tables of 10 available)

 Tickets are available via our club social media channels, by emailing hospitality@strathspeythistlefc.uk, or by contacting Laura on 07972 595584 

Early booking is strongly advised as this promises to be a very popular event. We look forward to welcoming you for what will be a memorable evening

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That’s all this week ……hopefully we’ll see you at Seafield Park next Saturday for our first home game since beating Brechin City on December 13 – which will by then be nine weeks!

AWAY MATCH v DEVERONVALE  FC
BREEDON HIGHLAND LEAGUE
PRINCESS ROYAL PARK, BANFF, AB45 1AZ
WEDNESDAY  4 FEBRUARY 2026 – KICK OFF 8pm

Weather permitting, Wednesday night sees us under the floodlights in Banff for our Breedon Highland League match against Deveronvale FC at Princess Royal Park.

The Vale after Saturday’s win away against Buckie Thistle, currently sit in tenth position – four places above us, they have twenty-eight points ,we are in fourteenth on twenty-five points but with five games in hand – so it should be another cracker of a match, especially as we haven’t played for a couple of weeks. It just goes to show how tight and unpredictable the league is this season.
Our last outing in the league was two weeks ago, which in turn was our first game since mid-December, and with one or two new faces coming in and one or two going out, Jags’ head coach Ryan Esson now has all his players back in contention for selection so hopefully the visit to Banff can reward us with the three points.
In our last league meeting at Seafield Park on a very hot August day we won, in what was a pretty tight affair so, I would imagine the homesters will not want to lose any more points to us. Both teams should be fighting fit and ready to go.
With the game being played at the coast there is much less chance of frost affecting it, but as ever keep up-to-date with our social media pages for news.
After Wednesday’s visit to Banff we are off up the A9 to current league leaders Brora on Saturday.

FOR INFORMATION ABOUT ALL FUTURE GAMES PLEASE CHECK WITH OUR SOCIAL MEDIA PAGES FOR UP TO DATE NEWS. 

LIAM SIGNS CONTRACT EXTENSION
We’re delighted to confirm that Liam Shewan has signed a two-year contract extension, keeping him at Strathspey Thistle FC until summer 2028.

Liam permanently signed for the Jags in May 2024 after impressing during a short loan spell and has established himself as one of the senior members of the squad. He also stepped up into the role of captain during James McShane’s absence, showing strong leadership both on and off the pitch.
We’re pleased to see Liam commit his future to the club as we continue to build for the seasons ahead.

FESTIVE RAFFLE

A huge thank you to everyone who entered our Festive Raffle and helped support the club, your backing really is appreciated.
The draw took place on Monday night, a little later than planned due to the recent bad weather and thank you to everyone for their patience and understanding.

Thank you as well to our committee members who gave up their time to sell tickets. A special shout-out goes to Mags Clark, who very kindly took time off work to sell tickets at Premier Grantown and the Co-op, it was a massive effort and hugely appreciated.
We’d also like to give a very special mention to our generous sponsors who donated our top prizes:
The McBroads – Not Just Travel
The Crossing Kingussie
Congratulations to all our prize winners, and thank you once again to everyone who took part and supported us it really does mean a lot to the club.

Other winners:

Garth Hotel 3 course meal for 2 Jane Mcintosh 04024
4 ball Grantown golf course Martin Durance 01823
Singleton 12 year old Darren Macrae 07371
Champagne Fraser Tulloch 02284
Rose Wine Ryan Maclean 04953
Tamnavullin Lara Macphee 00762
White Wine Willie Gillies 04695
Vodka Gavin Mackinnon 02498
Talisker Callum Ligerwood 02867
Red Wine Lara Macphee 00766
Prosecco Ann McAfferty 01808
Munchy Box Cairngorm Kebab House – Arlene McRoberts
Tanqueray Robert McLeod 05789
Mini Hamper Tom Cummings 02159
£50 Amarone voucher Ian Lambie 01835

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FUND-RAISING SPORTSMAN’S DINNER

Put this date in your diary now –  Saturday 2nd May 2026

We are delighted to announce the return of the Strathspey Thistle Football Club Sportsman’s Dinner which will take place on Saturday 2nd May 2026, at Seafield Park, Grantown-on-Spey, hosted in a luxury marquee, with champagne on arrival
The evening will be hosted by Ian Thain and will feature two fantastic guest speakers.

Firstly, Tam Cowan, one of Scotland’s most recognisable football voices, renowned for his sharp wit, storytelling, and unrivalled insight into the game.
He will be joined by Gordon Smith, former Scotland international and highly respected figure in Scottish football, who brings a wealth of experience and entertaining sporting stories.
Guests can look forward to a three-course dining experience with wine, alongside sporting stories and entertainment, plus a grand auction, raffle and player end of season awards presentation.

 7:00pm – late
£75 per person + VAT (tables of 10 available)
Tickets are available via our club social media channels, by emailing hospitality@strathspeythistlefc.uk, or by contacting Laura on 07972 595584 

Early booking is strongly advised as this promises to be a very popular event. We look forward to welcoming you for what will be a memorable evening

 #StrathspeyThistle #SportsmansDinner

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DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
As ever at this time of year we can never guarantee that matches will go ahead so please check our social media posts.

Saturday Feb 7 v Brora Rangers (A) 3pm
Saturday Feb 14 v Inverurie Locos (H) 2pm
Wednesday Feb 18 v Buckie Thistle (H) 8pm
Saturday Feb 21 v Forres Mechanics (A)
Wednesday Feb 25 v Rothes (H) 8pm
Saturday Feb 28 v Fraserburgh (H) 2pm 
Wednesday Mar 4 v Clachnacuddin (H) 8pm
Saturday Mar 7 v Inverurie Locos (A) 3pm
Saturday Mar 14 v Wick Academy (H) 2pm
Saturday Mar 21 v Nairn County (A) 3pm

As reported in the last few posts we were having a Ladies Day which was scheduled for the 28 Feb but it was agreed to keep that to when the weather warms up – more details when a more suitable date is decided upon.

Saturday 3rd: With snow all around, and amber weather warnings in place, all Highland League fixtures for the day were postponed, including the Jags’ trip to Deveronvale. The weekend card has been rescheduled for February.

Off the field, however, there was some surprising Highland League news when Ray McKinnon resigned as manager of title-chasers Brechin City.

Monday 5^th: Loan duo Jamie Williamson and George Robesten were recalled by Ross County from their stay at Seafield Park with George then making a permanent move to sign for Weston-super-Mare AFC of the English National League South. We wish both players all the best. 

Saturday 10^th: No surprise that the scheduled home game with Clachnacuddin was postponed, with Seafield Park looking a picture in the snow…

Thursday 15^th: Positive news ahead of the return to action at league leaders Formartine as Josh Race, Jamie Calder and Zach MacPhee all signed new deals with the club.

Manager Ryan Esson told the Strathspey Herald: “If we can keep the nucleus of this squad then it is only going to lead us to better things.”

Friday 16^th: More good news off the field with confirmation of a co-operation deal with Championship club Ross County which allows young Scottish players to move on loan to a partner club while retaining the flexibility to move between their parent club and the co-operation club during the course of the season.

As part of the agreement, midfielder Jamie Williamson has returned to Seafield Park.

Saturday 17^th: A tough way to return to action after a lengthy break with a trip to league leaders Formartine and perhaps some rustiness showed in the first half as we conceded three goals before a late fourth put the seal on three points for the home side.

Coach Don Johnstone told the Press & Journal: “We looked like a team that haven’t played in over a month. Our performance was quite flat and Formartine were such sharper.”

Wednesday 21^st: Midfielder Rorie Macleod, already due to sign for the Jags in the summer, made an early move from Clachnacuddin while Conor MacPhee has gone in the opposite direction to join the Inverness club. We wish Conor well and look forward to seeing Rorie in action.

Thursday 22nd: Another new arrival from Ross County with midfielder Andrew MacLeod joining on loan from the Staggies. Captain James McShane, meanwhile, agreed a contract extension until 2028 with his testimonial planned for this coming summer.

Friday 23^rd: There was to be no immediate debut for our new signings as a waterlogged pitch caused the cancellation of Saturday’s planned trip to face Keith.

Saturday 31^st: With no game scheduled for this weekend, we face a busy month ahead. Elsewhere in the Highland League, leaders Brora Rangers missed the chance to extend their advantage, with Formartine’s game postponed, when held to a draw at home by Keith.

PLAY THE STFC CLUB LOTTERY BY CLICKING HERE

AWAY MATCH v KEITH FC
BREEDON HIGHLAND LEAGUE
KYNOCH PARK, AB55 5EB
SATURDAY 24 JANUARY 2026 – KICK OFF 3pm

This Saturday, weather permitting, we’re off down the A95 for our match versus Keith FC.
Keith are currently sitting one place and one point ahead of us in the Breedon Highland League, they’re in tenth spot and on twenty-six points so on paper this looks like another cracker of a match.
In our last league match against Keith played last July it was a 3-1 victory to the Jags, with two goals from Shaun Morrison and one from Josh Race which created history in achieving our first ever first day of the season victory. It was a portent of was to come as we are currently enjoying our most successful season so far, so we hope to continue along that winning way and leave Keith with all three points…. but Keith have been motoring along very nicely recently so a very tough match is on the cards for both teams.

Jags’ head coach Ryan Esson will be back in the dug out this weekend and with more or less a full squad to choose from with Aaron Doran back fit, and with Daniel Whitehorn back training with a possibility of playing and possible debuts for our new signings it could make Ryan’s job difficult naming eleven.
As ever we wish the boys all the best.

CAPTAIN COMMITS! 

We’re delighted to announce that Club Captain James McShane has signed a new 2-year contract extension, keeping him at Strathspey Thistle until summer 2028! 
The summer of 2026 will also be a special one for James, as he will be honoured with a Testimonial in recognition of his outstanding service to the club. 
Manager Ryan Esson said: “James is a massive part of this football club, both on and off the pitch. His leadership, commitment and standards are exactly what we want at Strathspey Thistle, and we’re delighted he’s agreed to extend his stay with us.”
A leader both on and off the pitch, James’ commitment is brilliant news for everyone connected with the Club.

LOANS AND TRANSFER NEWS

CONOR MACPHEE DEPARTS and RORIE MACLEOD JOINS US.

We can confirm that Conor MacPhee has joined Clachnacuddin and Rorie MacLeod has joined us from Clachnacuddin.
Both players had intentions of leaving their respective clubs for the other one next season, so both clubs decided it made sense for both players to join up with their new clubs now and not wait till the start of next season.

Conor signed for the Jags in July 2024 and went on to make 35 appearances, scoring 1 goal. During his time at Seafield Park he has been a committed and very professional member of the squad throughout.
Whilst the Club offered Conor a new contract, he has chosen to make the move to Clachnacuddin to better accommodate his young family, coupled with also having been a member of the youth team at Clach so a move “home” was always on the cards.
Everyone at the Jags would like to thank Conor for his efforts and wish him and his family all the very best for the future.

Rorie MacLeod joins the Jags
We are delighted to confirm the signing of 27-year-old midfielder Rorie MacLeod from Clachnacuddin FC.
Rorie has put pen to paper on a two-year deal, keeping him at the club until summer 2028. 
Jags’ head coach Ryan Esson said “We’re thrilled to get Rorie on board ahead of schedule. He’s a player with real quality and character and we know he’ll make a big impact “ 
Welcome to Seafield Park, Rorie! 

WELCOME ANDREW

We’re also delighted to welcome 20-year-old midfielder Andrew MacLeod to Strathspey Thistle FC on loan from Ross County Football Club, as part of our new co-operation agreement.
Recently returning from a lengthy injury, Andrew is no stranger to the Highland League, having previously spent time on loan with Brora Rangers, Nairn County, and Clachnacuddin.
He now joins the Strathy Jags to gain valuable first-team minutes and continue his development at Seafield Park.
We’d like to thank everyone at Ross County for their support and look forward to working closely together through this partnership.

We can also confirm that Calum Brown’s existing loan agreement has now been transferred across to the new co-operation arrangement between Strathspey Thistle and Ross County. We wish Calum all the best and will miss his boisterous forward play and goal taking.

LAST WEEK’S MATCH v FORMARTINE at Pitmedden.

My spies at the match said that we were well beaten by a very strong and capable team – so we have no complaints!

Head coach Ryan Esson ,who was not in the dug out due to a one game suspension for three yellow cards, was interviewed in the local paper “The Strathspey and Badenoch Herald” and accepted the blame as he reckoned he had fed the players too much information in training which may have stifled their play, and admitted he should have left it to Don Johnston but as Ryan said it was something that they will learn from.
The boys hadn’t played since early December were a bit rusty in the first half and found themselves three down at the interval.
A better second half display saw them, although losing another goal, have more input in the match, so no doubt we’ve got a bit more match savvy and match fitness so well-ready for the Keith game.

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DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
For all Seafield Park hospitality queries please email Laura at :

hospitality@strathspeythistlefc.uk

February looks mighty busy!!
Saturday Jan 31 No Scheduled Game
Wednesday Feb 4 v Deveronvale (H) KO 8pm
Saturday Feb 7 v Brora Rangers (A) 3pm
Saturday Feb 14 v Inverurie Locos (H) 2pm
Wednesday Feb 18 v Buckie Thistle (H) 8pm
Saturday Feb 21 v Forres Mechanics (A)
Wednesday Feb 25 v Rothes (H) 8pm
Saturday Feb 28 v Fraserburgh (H) 2pm
Wednesday Mar 4 v Clachnacuddin (H) 8pm
Saturday Mar 7 v Inverurie Locos (A) 3pm
Saturday Mar 14 v Wick Academy (H) 2pm
Saturday Mar 21 v Nairn County (A) 3pm

As ever at this time of year we can never guarantee that matches will go ahead so please check our social media posts.

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LOTTERY HITS £14,700 JACKPOT

Could someone please, please win our fundraising Lottery – here’s your chance to play online before Sunday night’s draw … .just click here 

LOTTERY CH-CH-CHANGES
After the current jackpot has been won therefore completing that game, there will be some changes.
There will still be a weekly prize of £100 for a consolation winner if their entry matches four of the five numbers drawn, however instead of a weekly increase in the jackpot of £100, this will now be increased monthly. 

The game is to forecast 5 winning numbers, which are drawn at random, from 1-20.
If you are not playing online and have physically purchased a paper ticket the 5 numbers chosen are to be marked by a cross (X).

1. The Jackpot prize starts at £1,000 and the game continues until it is won and starts afresh. As applicable, the Jackpot increases by £100 immediately after the first draw in each calendar month, up to a maximum of £5,000. The Jackpot is then capped at £5,000 until it is won in a weekly draw. 
2. If more than one player has 5 winning numbers, the Jackpot will be divided equally among the winning players. 
3. Should no entry forecast all 5 winning numbers, then any player matching 4 numbers will be entered into a draw for a single Consolation Prize of £100. 
4. THE DRAW will take place every SUNDAY at 7pm unless otherwise advised.
5. The entrant named on the ticket must be at least 16 years of age.
6. All winners will be notified

THAT’S ALL JAGS’ FANS FOR THIS WEEK AND AS WE HAVE NO GAME SCHEDULED FOR NEXT SATURDAY WE WILL BACK (on Mon 2 Feb or Tues 3 Feb)WITH A PREVIEW OF OUR AWAY GAME AGAINST DEVERONVALE ON WEDNESDAY 4 FEBRUARY – KICK OFF 8PM

Strathspey Thistle Football Club are delighted to confirm that a cooperation agreement has been finalised with Championship side Ross County FC.

This new system allows young Scottish players to move on loan to a partner club while retaining the flexibility to move between their parent club and the cooperation club during the course of the season, providing valuable match experience at senior level.
Under the agreement, Ross County will be able to place up to three eligible players, who are under the age of 21 and eligible to represent Scotland, on a cooperation list.

Speaking on the agreement, Strathspey Thistle FC CEO Grant Mackellar said:

“We are thrilled to finalise a cooperation agreement with Championship side Ross County. We already have a strong relationship with the club and are excited to build on it, providing opportunities for some of the best young talent in the Highlands to gain first-team experience.

This season we have already benefited from having Jamie Williamson and Calum Brown on loan from Ross County.  Jamie returned to Ross County a few weeks ago after being with us from the start of the season and we are delighted to welcome him back to Strathspey Thistle as part of this cooperation agreement.  We are grateful to Steven Ferguson and everyone at Ross County who worked hard to make this partnership possible.”

Strathspey Thistle looks forward to working closely with Ross County FC as part of this arrangement, strengthening links across Highland football and supporting the continued development of young players.

AWAY MATCH v FORMARTINE UNITED FC
BREEDON HIGHLAND LEAGUE
NORTH LODGE PARK, PITMEDDEN,AB41 7PA
SATURDAY 17 JANUARY 2026 – KICK OFF 3pm

Weather permitting we will be in Pitmedden this Saturday afternoon for our Breedon Highland League meeting with Formartine United FC.

Formartine joined the Highland League at the same time we did and have been the more successful team and currently sit in top position, but we were very unlucky in our last league match at Seafield Park in August losing by two goals to one – our goal was a great goal scored from outside the box by Josh Race, who last week signed a two year contract extension for the Jags.
Formartine have only lost one game in the league so far this season, and their last loss was to Buckie Thistle in the first ever televised game featuring two Highland League teams at the end of October in the second round of the Scottish Cup, a night that is also remembered for the horrendous weather conditions.
It will be our first game since the middle of December and our win against the, then, current leaders of the league Brechin City so we go into this one with all guns blazing and hope we can match that performance.
Jags’ head coach should have more or less a full squad to choose from but we will be missing Jamie Williamson and George Robeston who were recalled by their parent club Ross County with Jamie featuring on the bench in their last two outings and George being sold to Weston-super-Mare and featured in their FA Cup match at the weekend.
As ever we wish the boys all the best against Formartine in what will be an exceptionally difficult match.

ZACH MACPHEE AND JAMIE CALDER

Both Zach and Jamie have signed contract extensions which is great news for the Club as we build for the seasons ahead. 

Twenty-one year-old defender, Jamie has committed to Strathspey Thistle FC with a two-year deal.
He joined the Strathy Jags in July 2024 and quickly become an important member of the squad.

Zach, who is nineteen, has signed a new deal that will keep him at Seafield Park until summer 2027. 
A former Ross County youth, Zach joined in July 2024 and has made an excellent impression with a strong start to this season, showing maturity beyond his years on the left side.
We’re delighted to see both committing their futures to the Jags.

This follows on from the news last week that Josh Race had extended his contract too.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
As ever, at this time of year we can never guarantee that matches will go ahead so please keep
Saturday Jan 24 v Keith (H) 2pm
Saturday Jan 31 As Yet No Scheduled Game
Wednesday Feb 4 v Deveronvale (H) KO 8pm
Saturday Feb 7 v Brora Rangers (A) 3pm
Saturday Feb 14 v Inverurie Locos (H) 2pm
Wednesday Feb 18 v Buckie Thistle (H) 8pm
Saturday Feb 21 v Forres Mechanics (A)
Wednesday Feb 25 v Rothes (H) 8pm
Saturday Feb 28 v Fraserburgh (H) 2pm OUR FIRST EVER LADIES DAY
Saturday Mar 7 v Inverurie Locos (A) 3pm
Saturday Mar 14 v Wick Academy (H) 2pm
Saturday Mar 21 v Nairn County (A) 3pm
Our only rearranged fixture not listed above is our away game at Banks O’Dee, which was meant to have been played on Wednesday 11 February but will not now – as soon as we have the date our social media platforms will inform.

For any queries regarding Match Day Hospitality at Seafield Park please contact Laura.

 LOTTERY HITS £14,600 JACKPOT

Could someone please win our fundraising Lottery – here’s your chance to play online before Sunday night’s draw ….just click here 

LOTTERY CH-CH-CHANGES
After the current jackpot has been won therefore completing that game, there will be some changes.
There will still be a weekly prize of £100 for a consolation winner if their entry matches four of the five numbers drawn, however instead of a weekly increase in the jackpot of £100, this will now be increased monthly. 
The game is to forecast 5 winning numbers, which are drawn at random, from 1-20.
If you are not playing online and have physically purchased a paper ticket the 5 numbers chosen are to be marked by a cross (X).

1. The Jackpot prize starts at £1,000 and the game continues until it is won and starts afresh. As applicable, the Jackpot increases by £100 immediately after the first draw in each calendar month, up to a maximum of £5,000. The Jackpot is then capped at £5,000 until it is won in a weekly draw. 
2. If more than one player has 5 winning numbers, the Jackpot will be divided equally among the winning players. 
3. Should no entry forecast all 5 winning numbers, then any player matching 4 numbers will be entered into a draw for a single Consolation Prize of £100. 
4. THE DRAW will take place every SUNDAY at 7pm unless otherwise advised.
5. The entrant named on the ticket must be at least 16 years of age.
6. All winners will be notified

That’s all sports-fans – until next week……

MATCH OFF

HOME MATCH v CLACHNACUDDIN FC
BREEDON HIGHLAND LEAGUE
SEAFIELD PARK, GRANTOWN-ON-SPEY, PH26 3HE
SATURDAY 10 JANUARY 2026 – KO 2PM

We were hoping to welcome players, officials and supporters of Clachnacuddin FC this Saturday but with about six inches of snow and a projected overnight temperature on Thursday and Friday of somewhere between -5 and -10 degrees I feel very confident in saying that this match will be postponed – adding yet another game to our unplayed fixtures which are now beginning to add up.

We are in for an exceptionally busy February already, so this is not a good situation – but as we play in the Highland League some years are worse than others so unfortunately there is nothing we can do about it.

We now turn our attention to our next scheduled match – which is next Saturday (17 Jan) at Pitmedden against Formartine United.

JOSH RACE 

At least there is some very good news with local lad Josh Race extending his contract with the Jags and we’re delighted to confirm that Josh, last season’s Supporters’ Player of the Year, has signed a two-year contract extension. 
Following interest from other clubs, we’re pleased that Josh has committed his future to the Strathy Jags and will continue to play a key role within the squad.
Manager Ryan Esson said: “Josh has been outstanding for us and fully deserves this new deal. He’s an important player in the group, both on and off the pitch and we’re delighted he’s chosen to commit his future to the club despite interest elsewhere.”

SQUAD UPDATE

Sadly, we can confirm that Jamie Williamson and George Robesten have been recalled by Ross County Football Club

We would like to thank both players for their efforts during their time with the club and wish them the very best going forward.

FESTIVE RAFFLE

We have obviously had to make a change with our intended draw which was meant to have taken place in the Mackellar Suite after the Clach game – it will now be drawn directly after our next scheduled match committee meeting on Monday January 26.

 LOTTERY HITS £14,500 JACKPOT

Could someone please win our fundraising Lottery – here’s your chance to play online before Sunday night’s draw ….just click here 

Wouldn’t it be a great way to start the New Year……

LOTTERY CH-CH-CHANGES
After the current jackpot has been won therefore completing that game, there will be some changes.
There will still be a weekly prize of £100 for a consolation winner if their entry matches four of the five numbers drawn, however instead of a weekly increase in the jackpot of £100, this will now be increased monthly. 
The game is to forecast 5 winning numbers, which are drawn at random, from 1-20.
If you are not playing online and have physically purchased a paper ticket the 5 numbers chosen are to be marked by a cross (X).

1. The Jackpot prize starts at £1,000 and the game continues until it is won and starts afresh. As applicable, the Jackpot increases by £100 immediately after the first draw in each calendar month, up to a maximum of £5,000. The Jackpot is then capped at £5,000 until it is won in a weekly draw. 
2. If more than one player has 5 winning numbers, the Jackpot will be divided equally among the winning players. 
3. Should no entry forecast all 5 winning numbers, then any player matching 4 numbers will be entered into a draw for a single Consolation Prize of £100. 
4. THE DRAW will take place every SUNDAY at 7pm unless otherwise advised.
5. The entrant named on the ticket must be at least 16 years of age.
6. All winners will be notified

Late news: November’s quiz night at the Royal British Legion Scotland Strathspey in Grantown-on-Spey was well attended and a great fundraiser for the club. Presided over by committee member Tom Clarke, 11 teams took part with Scrambled Eggheads coming out as the winners.

Friday 5^th: All eyes on the World Cup draw taking place in Washington DC as Scotland were paired with Brazil, Morocco and Haiti at next summer’s tournament, Boston being the venue for the opening two matches, the first of which kicks off at 2am UK time on Sunday 14 June.

Saturday 6^th: In the day’s Highland League matches, Huntly and Forres Mechanics drew 2-2 while Keith were 2-0 victors at home to Deveronvale.

Thursday 11^th: Speaking ahead of Saturday’s game against top of the table Brechin City, manager Ryan Esson told the Strathspey Herald: “We’re more than ready for a game because it has been that long and why not Brechin?”

Saturday 13^th: Why not Brechin indeed as the Jags earned one of the best results in the club’s history, Shaun Morrison scoring the only goal of what would turn out to be  a 1-0 victory against the league leaders in the 34^th minute of the game.

Saturday 13^th (cont.) “The game-plan we worked on in training worked so well and I couldn’t be happier with both the performance and the result,” was Ryan’s verdict, quoted in the Press & Journal.

Thursday 18^th: The flu bug sweeping the country found its way into the Jags’ camp with a large number of players affected and meant the postponement of our planned trip to face Banks O’ Dee on Saturday.

Saturday 20^th:  Brechin bounced back from their defeat at Seafield Park with a win at home to Rothes to stay top of the Highland League.

Saturday 27^th: Another postponement, this time the scheduled home game against Buckie Thistle falling foul of a frozen pitch.

Upcoming Fixtures
Jan 10 v Clach (H)
Jan 17 v Formartine Utd (A)
Jan 24 v Keith (A)
Jan 31 v Huntly (H)
Feb 4 v Deveronvale (A) Wednesday
Feb 7 v Brora Rangers (A)
Feb 14 v Inverurie Locos (H)
Feb 18 v Buckie Thistle (H) Wednesday
Feb 21 v Forres Mechanics (A)
Fen 25 v Rothes (H) Wednesday
Feb 28 v Fraserburgh (H) LADIES DAY

To book hospitality for any home game, contact:
hospitality@strathspeythistlefc.uk

STFC wishes all supporters a happy and healthy 2026

Lottery jackpot £14,500 – Click here to play

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