April 1. In todays Strathspey and Badenoch Herald, team manager Gordy Nicolson welcomed the clarity that ending the season has brought. The Jags didn’t get to play a league game with their only competitive game being the mid December defeat to Buckie Thistle in the Scottish Cup. He thought it was the right decision as everyone now knows where they stand and planning for season 2021/2022 can start.
April 2. Relegation play-offs look set to be introduced to the Highland League next season. Talks have been ongoing between the Highland League and the Scottish Junior FA to create a formal link between tiers five and six of the Scottish football pyramid. From next season the team finishing bottom of the Highland League could find themselves on a play-off against the champions of either the North Super League or the North Caledonian League. For one of the teams in tier six to play in the play-offs they would have to meet the criteria for membership of the Highland League. They would have to have a full licence of the SFA and with all that entails. At present the only clubs meet the criteria are Golspie Sutherland and Banks o’ Dee.
April 3. Congratulations to Brora who came within two minutes of pulling off another shock in the cup tie with Stranraer which then went to extra time but the Cattachs then conceded two more goals as they tired. Well done to Formartine United and Fraserburgh for also carrying the Highland League flag in the Scottish Cup.
April 5. The league announced that next season should start on Saturday 24th July 2021, government regulations permitting.
April 9. The SPFL were unable to announce the dates of Brora Rangers and Kelty Hearts play-off games due to ‘several issues’. It had been expected that a draw would have been made to see who played at home on April 24. The second leg was allocated to May 1.
April 15. The club are pleased to announce that Kieron Chalmers has signed a contract extension.
“I am really excited to get Kieran tied to an extended contract. Unfortunately because of COVID he has hardly played any competitive games but I know he is eager to get out on the pitch as soon as we can get back playing. He has great vision and is a very clever footballer. He is an important part of the squad and I think he will quickly become a fans favourite.” said manager Gordy Nicolson.
April 19. No statement from the SPFL about play-off dates for Brora Rangers and Kelty Hearts.
Charlie Macdonald informed the club that he would be standing down from the management committee. We appreciate what he has done for the club over the years.
April 21. Sad day for Rothes Football Club with the demolition at Mackessack Park of a building where supporters used to buy raffle tickets in exchange for cans of beer. The club discovered water had come in during the recent shut down and were left with no option but to demolish. The club are planning to build on the site a hospitality suite, first aid room and secretary’s room.
April 26. After the fiasco of the European Super League it was disappointing that the SPFL who were very forthright in denouncing the breakaway were busy taking legal advice on whether Brora Rangers and Kelty Hearts should be allowed to play off for the right to face club 42, Brechin City, for the chance to play in their league next season. You wonder if the SPFL really believe in the pyramid system.
April 27. First issue of our pre-season fixtures. June 19 away New Elgin ko 1500, June 24 away Burghead ko 1900, June 27 Rothes FC at Aviemore Sports Centre ko midday, July 1 away Forres Thistle ko TBC and Dufftown away ko 1930. More games are under discussion and when confirmed we will let everyone know via the website and social media channels.
April 29. At last the SPFL have agreed that Brora and Kelty will meet over two legs for the right to play Brechin City. It is most unfair that both clubs have been put through these extra hoops and considerable expense. See BBC Sport article below,
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/56922670
April 30. Brora at home in first leg to Kelty on Tuesday May 4 with the return on Saturday May 8 at Kelty. It wouldn’t be Scottish football without the legal profession being involved.