Tomorrow’s match between ourselves and Wick Academy FC has unfortunately been postponed due to a frozen pitch.
We have to now look forward to visiting Forres next Saturday 21 December 3pm kick off.
WICK ACADEMY FC – GAME OFF
WHOSE SCORRIE NOW
HOME MATCH v WICK ACADEMY FC
BREEDON HIGHLAND LEAGUE
SEAFIELD PARK, GRANTOWN-ON-SPEY, PH26 3HE
SATURDAY 14 DECEMBER 2024 – KO 3pm
THERE WILL BE AN EARLY PITCH INSPECTION SO PLEASE CHECK OUR SOCIAL MEDIA FOR UP TO DATE INFORMATION.
On Saturday, weather permitting, we welcome players, management and supporters of Wick Academy FC to Seafield Park.
Wick currently sit in fifteenth position in the league with thirteen points five points ahead of us and it will be a tough game for us both.
If any supporters want a resumé of what is available click here.
The Scorries haven’t had a very successful November culminating in their last two games being postponed , much like ourselves, so it will be good getting back to football action.
Unfortunately we will be without Paul Brindle, who is suspended, and Jamie Calder who looks as though could be out for a wee while with a knee injury, but Josh Race could be back.
Boss Ryan Esson will be looking for three points as will all Jags’ fans.
PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS IS A 3PM KICK OFF
LAST SATURDAY’S GAME v KEITH – WATERLOGGED PITCH – POSTPONED
This was a very difficult day weather wise for football.
Experienced members of the committee met at the ground at 8.30am to inspect the pitch as we had to notify Keith FC for travelling and practical purposes before 9am – a normal occurrence if there is any doubt as to the game being played.
At 8.30 in the morning the pitch was playable….
The forecast was for rain throughout the day, but would there be enough rain to put the game in jeopardy…that was the dilemma, as Seafield Park normally drains very well with normal rainfall.
However, come noon and with incessant rain pouring down for at least an hour and a half beforehand, and with the prospect of at least another two hours of similar weather, upon arrival, the match referee headed straight to the pitch and after some deliberation declared the pitch waterlogged and postponed the game.
By doing so we offer our sincere apologies to Keith FC who were not far from Grantown on receiving the news, as well as the supporters of both clubs who had made the journey or were en-route.
It is a very difficult decision to call off a game of football as the authorities have to be informed and it is then their decision to call off – hence, waiting for the referee to relay conditions back to league HQ.
If the pitch is covered in snow, or is frozen it is an easier decision – and a camera phone photo sent to the Highland League would confirm that, but in last week’s case the decision is far more complicated.
We have all been disappointed at some point with Mother Nature – a couple of years ago our team bus containing players, management and supporters were just outside Wick, strangely enough this week’s opponents, only to be informed that due to ever increasing inclement weather over the morning our match had been postponed.
The only positive from the postponement was that the pitch would have been cut up badly and at this time of year would have taken ages to recover.
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
2025 – These are the scheduled homegames for January and February and their kick-off times.
Saturday 11 January at 2pm – Buckie Thistle FC
Saturday 25 January at 2pm – Brechin City FC
Saturday 8 February at 2pm – Clachnacuddin FC
Saturday 23 February at 3pm – Nairn County FC
With no game scheduled for Saturday 16 February there may be a previous postponed game arranged for that date.
Please check with our very much up-to-date social media if there are any changes with kick-offs etc.
For hospitality availability and details please contact : Email : hospitality@strathspeythistlefc.uk
Don’t wait—book your place now!
There will be a cash bar for all spectators from 1-2 pm and then at FT
JAGS’ CHRISTMAS RAFFLE
It’s that time of the year again….the Jags’ Christmas Raffle….
Get your tickets and support Strathspey Thistle FC and you could win some fantastic prizes!
1st Prize: A fabulous stay at the Kingsmills Hotel, Inverness – 2 twin rooms for 1 night, bed & breakfast, PLUS a 4-ball at Fortrose & Rosemarkie Golf Club Links!
2nd Prize: A Fine Dining experience for 4 at The Crossing Kingussie – perfect for a special night out!
3rd Prize: A festive hamper filled with seasonal goodies!
And that’s not all – we have lots of other fantastic prizes up for grabs!
Tickets: £1 each /£10 for a book…
You can buy tickets from our committee members, playing squad, and management team.
……or drop us an email : hospitality@strathspeythistlefc.uk
The draw will take place on: Saturday 11th January, in the Mackellar Suite after the Buckie Thistle game.
Thank you for your incredible support and a big thank you to all who have very kindly donated prizes!
#StrathspeyThistleFC #FestiveRaffle #SupportLocal #FootballCommunity
£8900 TO BE WON – THIS WEEK’S JACKPOT PRIZE
As ever we conclude this week’s meanderings offering you a jackpot win of a massive £8900 on our online fundraising lottery – imagine that at Christmas – click here if you want to play…
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. The 5 numbers chosen are to be marked by a cross (X).
- 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.
- If more than one player has 5 winning numbers, the Jackpot will be divided equally among the winning players.
- 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.
- THE DRAW will take place every SUNDAY at 7pm unless otherwise advised.
- The entrant named on the ticket must be at least 16 years of age.
- All winners will be notified.
URBAN SPACEMAN
HOME MATCH v KEITH FC
BREEDON HIGHLAND LEAGUE
SEAFIELD PARK, GRANTOWN-ON-SPEY, PH26 3HE
SATURDAY 7 DECEMBER 2024 – KO 2pm
This Saturday afternoon we welcome players, management and supporters of Keith FC.
If any want a resumé about Grantown please click here……
This will be our first meeting of the season and currently The Maroons sit in thirteenth position on twenty-one points having won seven of their seventeen games – so ten losses and no draws.
November was a good month for them as they won three out of their four league games – so, again this will be a tough game for The Jags, especially after last week’s disappointing result.
Home, neutral and away supporters, that have attended our last few games have remarked that the The Jags’ team this year is a major improvement on last year’s, but we’re still in the melting pot and fine tuning what is a more or less complete new team of players – Jags’ fans want to see more performances similar to both the Rothes and Fraserburgh games, but consistency will come and we hopefully this week will give the home crowd a result to put a smile on their faces…..
LAST SATURDAY’S BREEDON HIGHLAND LEAGUE GAME v DEVERONVALE FC – report by Ian Davidson edited for the web – full match report in the Strathspey & Badenoch Herald – https://www.strathspey-herald.co.uk
This on paper was a match that Strathspey Thistle could and should have taken something from in their quest to move off the bottom of the Breedon Highland League when Deveronvale came calling to Seafield Park last Saturday.
However, their hopes of taking anything from the meeting were blown out of the water when in first half injury time, they were sensationally reduced to ten men when striker Paul Brindle was sent packing by match referee Stuart Randall, following a second bookable offence- that then left the Grantown club with a mountain to climb.
Brindle had earlier yellow carded for a late challenge on Vale keeper Ethan Hopkinson, most spectators were very surprised when referee Randall brandished a contentious second yellow for what seemed a fair tackle, some even thought the card could have been given the other way!
The Jags had a couple of really good chances in the first twenty-five minutes but those missed chances were to prove costly when the visitors forged ahead after 28 minutes.
Then on the stroke of half-time, the home side were sensationally reduced to ten men.
The second period opened with the visitors holding the initiative and increasing their lead when a long ball into the box saw the home side fail to clear their lines.
The Jags came close to reducing the leeway after 57 minutes, when substitute Daniel Whitehorn narrowly headed past the post, followed two minutes later by a Josh Race effort from the edge of the box.
Jags’ keeper Euan Storrier then pulled off a couple of superb saves but was beaten three minutes from time when ‘Vale striker Ben Hermiston scored his second goal of the game and ‘Vales third.
Overall, a disappointing result for the Seafield Park side, the general view being that the turning point was defined with the Paul Brindle red card….the consequences of which unfortunately carries forward to this Saturday as Paul will be suspended.
SCOTTISH CUP
Last Saturday five Highland League teams competed in the Third Round of the Scottish Cup – Banks O’Dee, Buckie Thistle, Brechin City, Fraserburgh and Brora Rangers – with Brechin and Fraserburgh progressing to the Fourth Round which will take place on the weekend of the 18th January.
The eagle-eyed among you will notice that both Buckie and Brechin will be at Seafield Park in January and we recently hosted Fraserburgh, which resulted in a very enjoyable and competitive match which finished 2 – 2 ……the surroundings will be very different for The Broch when they visit Ibrox Stadium for their next round tie against Rangers …..Brechin, however, warm up for their visit to us the following Saturday, with a home tie against Hearts……..We wish both Highland League clubs all the best.
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY AND HOME MATCH DAY HOSPITALITY
Our Next Home Game and our last one of 2024 before visiting Forres Mechanics FC on Saturday 21 December, which will be our last game of 2024.
Match Day Hospitality enquiries : hospitality@strathspeythistlefc.uk
2025
These are the scheduled homegames for January and February and their kick-off times.
Saturday 11 January at 2pm – Buckie Thistle FC
Saturday 25 January at 2pm – Brechin City FC
Saturday 8 February at 2pm – Clachnacuddin FC
Saturday 23 February at 3pm – Nairn County FC
With no game scheduled for Saturday 16 February there may be a previous postponed game arranged for that date.
Please check with our very much up-to-date social media if there are any changes with kick-offs etc.
For hospitality availability and details please contact :
Email : hospitality@strathspeythistlefc.uk
An example of what is available is complimentary drinks from 1 pm until kick-off at 2pm / One-course lunch / Seat in the Donly McLeod Stand / Complimentary half-time beverage and a pie.
Don’t wait—book your place now!
There will be a cash bar for all spectators from 1-2 pm and then at FT
JAGS’ CHRISTMAS RAFFLE
It’s that time of the year again….the Jags’ Christmas Raffle….
Get your tickets and support Strathspey Thistle FC and you could win some fantastic prizes!
1st Prize: A fabulous stay at the Kingsmills Hotel, Inverness – 2 twin rooms for 1 night, bed & breakfast, PLUS a 4-ball at Fortrose & Rosemarkie Golf Club Links!
2nd Prize: A Fine Dining experience for 4 at The Crossing Kingussie – perfect for a special night out!
3rd Prize: A festive hamper filled with seasonal goodies!
And that’s not all – we have lots of other fantastic prizes up for grabs!
Tickets: £1 each /£10 for a book…
You can buy tickets from our committee members, playing squad, and management team.
……or drop us an email : hospitality@strathspeythistlefc.uk
The draw will take place on: Saturday 11th January, in the Mackellar Suite after the Buckie Thistle game.
Thank you for your incredible support and a big thank you to all who have very kindly donated prizes!
#StrathspeyThistleFC #FestiveRaffle #SupportLocal #FootballCommunity
£8800 TO BE WON – THIS WEEK’S JACKPOT PRIZE
As ever we conclude this week’s meanderings offering you a jackpot win of a massive £8800 on our online fundraising lottery – imagine that at Christmas – click here if you want to play…
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. The 5 numbers chosen are to be marked by a cross (X).
- 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.
- If more than one player has 5 winning numbers, the Jackpot will be divided equally among the winning players.
- 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.
- THE DRAW will take place every SUNDAY at 7pm unless otherwise advised.
- The entrant named on the ticket must be at least 16 years of age.
- All winners will be notified.
We wish Ryan and the boys all the best for this Saturday’s game against Keith FC
CLIVE’S NEWSLETTER – NOVEMBER 2024
Saturday 2nd: The Jags have suffered some heavy defeats against Fraserburgh over the last few seasons, so it was very pleasing to see the home side earn a well-deserved point after a 2-2 draw at Seafield Park, Caelan Mutch and Steven MacDonald scoring the goals.
Further good news followed the game with the confirmed signing of defender Wallace Duffy following his release by Inverness Caledonian Thistle due to the club going into administration.
“His experience will be a huge benefit to all our players,” said manager Ryan Esson.
Sunday 10th: STFC were honoured to take part once again in the annual Remembrance Day service at Grantown-on-Spey War Memorial.
Saturday 16th: A long trip to Turriff United for both the team and those travelling on the supporters’ bus, and unfortunately the return journey would have felt longer after a 4-0 for the home side, their first victory since mid-August.
A vital run of home games is now coming up for the Jags.
Saturday 23rd: The first snow of the year meant that the scheduled home game against Huntly was postponed but made for a beautiful scene at Seafield Park…
Saturday 30th: A sharp improvement in the weather meant no problems for the visit of Deveronvale but, after a bright start, it was a 3-0 defeat for the home side to leave us still at the foot of the Highland League table heading into December, two points behind Rothes and Lossiemouth.
A HAZY SHADE OF WINTER
HOME MATCH v DEVERONVALE FC
BREEDON HIGHLAND LEAGUE
SEAFIELD PARK, GRANTOWN-ON-SPEY, PH26 3HR
SATURDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2024 – KO 2pm
This Saturday we welcome players, management and supporters of Banff’s own Deveronvale FC.
It’ll be great to get back to Saturday afternoon fitba’ after last week’s disappointments courtesy of the snowy weather!
This match was scheduled to be played on the 28 December, but as we were both not going to be involved in the Scottish Cup 3rd Round, we thought that it would be better in case of maybe more inclement weather at that time of year and, of the hoopla surrounding Christmas and New Year, it would be beneficial to both clubs bringing the fixture forward – but as we can never rely on the weather at this time of the year it may not work out the way we both planned – see last week for an example!!!……
Manager Garry Wood brings his team to Seafield Park currently sitting in tenth place and have over the past couple of months had a mixed bag of results and their away form not as strong as their hame performances. If any of the Vale’s travelling support want a resumé of what happens in Grantown click here…
In our previous encounter this season at Princess Royal Park in Banff, we narrowly lost by three goals to two losing a goal in the last minute of time added on….so hopefully it’ll be another cracker but, The Jags’ get the three points this time.
As ever we wish Ryan and the boys all the best!
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY AND HOME MATCH DAY HOSPITALITY
The next two scheduled games are home league games – please check with our very much up-to-date social media if there are any changes with kick-offs etc.
For information about our different hospitality packages contact Email : hospitality@strathspeythistlefc.uk
An example of what is available is complimentary drinks from 1 pm until kick-off at 2pm / One-course lunch / Seat in the Donly McLeod Stand / Complimentary half-time beverage and a pie.
Don’t wait—book your place now!
There will be a cash bar for all spectators from 1-2 pm and then at FT
These are the scheduled games before the end of January and their kick-off times.
Saturday 7 December at 2pm – Keith FC
Saturday 14 December at 3pm – Wick Academy FC
we then visit Forres Mechanics on Saturday 21 December KO 3pm
2025
Our first game of the New Year will be at Formartine on Saturday 4 January and a 3pm KO.
HOME GAMES IN JANUARY
Saturday 11 January at 2pm – Buckie Thistle FC –
Saturday 25 January at 2pm – Brechin City FC
JAGS’ CHRISTMAS RAFFLE
It’s that time of the year again….the Jags’ Christmas Raffle….
Get your tickets and support Strathspey Thistle FC and you could win some fantastic prizes!
1st Prize: A fabulous stay at the Kingsmills Hotel, Inverness – 2 twin rooms for 1 night, bed & breakfast, PLUS a 4-ball at Fortrose & Rosemarkie Golf Club Links!
2nd Prize: A Fine Dining experience for 4 at The Crossing Kingussie – perfect for a special night out!
3rd Prize: A festive hamper filled with seasonal goodies!
And that’s not all – we have lots of other fantastic prizes up for grabs!
Tickets: £1 each or £10 for a book!
You can buy tickets from our committee members, playing squad, and management team. Want in? Drop us a comment below, and we’ll DM you with payment details and issue you with tickets!
The draw will take place on: Saturday 11th January, in the Mackellar Suite after the Buckie Thistle game.
Thank you for your incredible support and a big thank you to all who have very kindly donated prizes!
#StrathspeyThistleFC #FestiveRaffle #SupportLocal #FootballCommunity
£8700 TO BE WON – THIS WEEK’S JACKPOT PRIZE
As ever we conclude this week’s meanderings offering you a jackpot win of a massive £8700 on our online fundraising lottery – click here if you want to play…
LOTTERY CH-CH-CHANGES
After the current jackpot has been won, therefore completing that game, there will be couple of 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. The 5 numbers chosen are to be marked by a cross (X).
- 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.
- If more than one player has 5 winning numbers, the Jackpot will be divided equally among the winning players.
- 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.
- THE DRAW will take place every SUNDAY at 7pm unless otherwise advised.
- The entrant named on the ticket must be at least 16 years of age.
- All winners will be notified.
HUNTLY MATCH POSTPONED
Doubts on the Huntly game going ahead started on late Tuesday night, and the above photo taken on Wednesday afternoon showed that a weather miracle was required, especially after heavy snow on Wednesday night and below freezing temperatures recorded…..and the forecast for Saturday over the North is not too promising either ……so we must now concentrate on next Saturday’s match here in Grantown against Deveronvale….if Mother Nature lets us…..
Hopefully see y’all at Seafield Park on the 30th…
LAST SATURDAY’S GAME v TURRIFF UNITED IN TURRIFF.
It was not the result we were hoping for and according to the Jags’ fans who made their way to The Haughs the score was a bit harsh on the boys.
After a reasonable first half we went into the break one-nil down although we could have been level as we missed a couple of good chances shortly before the end of the half
However, the second half was a different story even although we had at least three very good chances at the start of the half, none of which were taken we were guilty of bad defending and lost a couple of headed goals from crosses midway through, which was followed by another goal near full time resulting in a four-nil defeat.
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY AND HOME MATCHDAY HOSPITALITY
The next three scheduled games are home league games – please check with our very much up-to-date social media if there are any changes with kick-offs etc.
For information about our different hospitality packages
contact Email : hospitality@strathspeythistlefc.uk
For example – complimentary drinks from 2 PM until kick-off / One-course lunch / Seat in the Donly McLeod Stand / Complimentary half-time beverage and a pie.
Cash bar from 1-2 PM and then at FT
Don’t wait—book your place now!
These are the scheduled games before the end of January and their kick-off times.
Saturday 30 November at 2pm – Deveronvale FC
Saturday 7 December at 2pm – Keith FC
Saturday 14 December at 3pm – Wick Academy FC ( Christmas Jumper Day)
2025
Saturday 11 January at 2pm – Buckie Thistle FC
Saturday 25 January at 2pm – Brechin City FC
JAGS’ CHRISTMAS RAFFLE
Probably the first mention of quite a few in the lead up to Christmas, but it’s that time of the year again….the Jags’ Christmas Raffle….
Get your tickets and support Strathspey Thistle FC while you could win some fantastic prizes!
1st Prize: A fabulous stay at the Kingsmills Hotel, Inverness – 2 twin rooms for 1 night, bed & breakfast, PLUS a 4-ball at Fortrose & Rosemarkie Golf Club Links!
2nd Prize: A Fine Dining experience for 4 at The Crossing Kingussie – perfect for a special night out!
3rd Prize: A festive hamper filled with seasonal goodies!
And that’s not all – we have lots of other fantastic prizes up for grabs!
Tickets: £1 each or £10 for a book!
You can buy tickets from our committee members, playing squad, and management team.
The draw will take place on: Saturday 11th January, in the Mackellar Suite after the Buckie Thistle game.
Thank you for your incredible support and a big thank you to all who have very kindly donated prizes!
#StrathspeyThistleFC #FestiveRaffle #SupportLocal #FootballCommunity
£8600 TO BE WON – THIS WEEK’S JACKPOT PRIZE
As ever we conclude this week’s meanderings offering you a jackpot win of a massive £8600 on our online fundraising lottery – click here if you want to play…
LOTTERY CH-CH-CHANGES
After the current jackpot has been won therefore completing that game, there will be couple of 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.
The 5 numbers chosen are to be marked by a cross (X).
- 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.
- If more than one player has 5 winning numbers, the Jackpot will be divided equally among the winning players.
- 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.
- THE DRAW will take place every SUNDAY at 7pm unless otherwise advised.
- The entrant named on the ticket must be at least 16 years of age.
- All winners will be notified.
So I’m afraid there’s no game this week but hopefully, we will have one next Saturday….preview and weeks happenings next Friday…possibly a wee bit later than normal….
FOR ALL THE COWS
AWAY MATCH v TURRIFF UNITED FC
BREEDON HIGHLAND LEAGUE
THE HAUGHS, QUEENS ROAD, TURRIFF AB53 4DY
SATURDAY 16 NOVEMBER 2024 – KO 3PM
After a free week it’s back to Breedon Highland League action with a visit to The Haughs in Turriff and our match with Turriff United FC. Currently sitting in fifteenth place, three points ahead of us, a Jags’win would mean that we would be level on points and definitely something Ryan and the boys will be aiming for.This is our first meeting of the season and unfortunately we did not cover ourselves in glory in both league games last season, a season in which Turriff finished in ninth position. This seaon however is proving more difficult having won only three games and drawn two, so we have more of a chance in taking some points back to Seafield Park and, with, Turriff having lost their last league game to Rothes, there must be an air of confidence in the Jags camp in getting a result.
These are the games we have to win and with matches coming up against Huntly, Deveronvale, Keith and Wick Academy, all at home over the next four Saturdays, we would hope to put together a decent run of form and hopefully be able to move up the table.
In an interview with the local paper ‘The Strathy” Jags’ manager Ryan Esson was delighted he had more or less for the first time this season a fully fit squad and having had some quality time on the training ground over the past couple of weeks he was looking forward to the next month and beyond.
Saturday should see the debut of former Caley Thistle defender Wallace Duffy, and although Josh Race is still suspended and with long term injuries to Jordan Laidlaw, Alan Kerr and Scott Docherty, the rest of the squad are raring to go.
As ever, we wish the Jags all the best in their quest for three points.
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
As I stated we have four home league games in a row starting next Saturday – and lets face it the weather may not be anything like the above photo – please check with our very much up-to-date social media if there are any changes with kick-offs etc.
These are the games and kick-off times as of today, Friday 15 November.
HOME GAMES
Saturday 23 November at 2pm – Huntly FC
Saturday 30 November at 2pm – Deveronvale FC
Saturday 7 December at 2pm – Keith FC
Saturday 14 December at 3pm – Wick Academy FC
2025
Saturday 11 January at 2pm – Buckie Thistle FC
Saturday 25 January at 2pm – Brechin City FC
For information about match sponsorship, hospitality or anything regarding our exploits over the next few weeks – for example this Saturday we are running a bus to the Turriff game – there may still be tickets available – please contact for more information…..
hospitality@strathspeythistlefc.uk
We’re off to Forres Mechanics on Saturday 21 December for a 3pm kick off – and that is our last game of 2024.
MATCHDAY HOSPITALITY OVER THE COMING WEEKS
Complimentary drinks from 2 PM until kick-off / One-course lunch / Seat in the Donly McLeod Stand / Complimentary half-time beverage and a pie.
Cash bar from 1-2 PM and then at FT
Don’t wait—book your place now!
We are also taking hospitality bookings for the remainder of the season!
Sat 23rd Nov – Huntly Football Club
Sat 14th Dec – Wick Academy FC (Festive Jumper Day)
Sat 28th Dec – Deveronvale Football Club
Sat 11th Jan – Buckie Thistle Football Club
Sat 25th Jan – Brechin City FC
Sat 8th Feb – Clachnacuddin FC
Sat 22nd Feb – Nairn County FC
Sat 22nd Mar – Rothes Football Club (Ladies Day)
Sat 12th Apr – Turriff United Football Club
Email: hospitality@strathspeythistlefc.uk
CHRISTMAS FUN
Christmas at Strathspey Thistle FC
We’re thrilled to announce that our new Mackellar Suite is now available for booking this Christmas season! Whether you’re planning a festive family gathering, office Christmas party, or a special celebration with friends, the Mackellar Suite offers a stylish, comfortable space for your event.
What to Expect: Fully catered events, Licensed bar, Flexible seating arrangements, Perfect for groups and corporate bookings…..
For bookings or enquiries, email hospitality@strathspeythistlefc.uk
STRATHSPEY ROVERS SOCCER SCHOOL or Fitba’ School…….
Strathspey Rovers are SUPER excited to announce we’ll be running our first ever ‘girls only’ football sessions starting on Monday 18th November (6-7pm) running for 4 weeks.
GIRLS FOOTBALL
for Strathspey Girls
Aviemore Astro pitch
Monday 18th (trial 4 weeks)
6-7PM
High School age girls (S1-S6)
NB this is a trial block to gauge local interest/demand and will be led by our SYFA qualified female club coaches.
These are fun sessions open to all abilities. Please turn up and take part
REFEREE RECRUITMENT
Referees are a vital part of football and as the Scottish FA seeks to continually grow and develop the Scottish game, there is a constant need to recruit and develop referees.
Referee Associations locally continue to be looking to welcome new members and to this end, we would invite anyone interested to contact the Association which covers matches in their area.
All football matches require at least a referee and in certain other fixtures also assistant referees. Therefore, new blood is sought on an ongoing basis.
Refereeing can be a highly rewarding challenge, encouraging a healthy and active lifestyle as well as significantly contributing to the development of the game. Referees operate at all levels – from grassroots football right through to the Scottish Professional Football League and international matches.
The Associations run introductory classes:
When numbers are sufficient, on a class based ‘face to face’ basis, which can be tailored to suit candidates
Zoom which can also be tailored for those interested.
And in addition, there is also an on-line course which can be completed at the candidates own pace, in their own surroundings, over 5 modules, with details on the SFA website.
All courses also have a face-to-face session for candidates to provide advice on the practicalities of officiating.
The Association would be delighted to hear from you and contact details are undernoted.
Further details are also on the SFA website in the referee section.
Scottish Football Association
SFA https://www.scottishfa.co.uk/scottish-fa/referees/referee-associations/north-of-scotland/
Aberdeen & District Referees’ Association
Website: Scottishfa.co.uk (incorporating Orkney and Shetland)
E-mail: aberdeenrefereeonline@outlook.com
secretarysfarefereeaberdeen@outlook.com
Website: www.aberdeenanddistrictreferees.co.uk
Moray and Banff Referees’ Association
Email: mbrefereecourse@gmail.com
North of Scotland Referees’ Association
Email: NOSRAinstructors@gmail.com
SFA https://www.scottishfa.co.uk/scottish-fa/referees/referee-associations/north-of-scotland/
Angus and Perth Referees’ Association
mail: recruiment@aprefs.co.uk
Website: www.aprefs.co.uk
£8500 TO BE WON – THIS WEEK’S JACKPOT PRIZE
As ever we conclude this week’s meanderings offering you a jackpot win of a massive £8200 on our online fundraising lottery – click here if you want to play…
LOTTERY CH-CH-CHANGES
After the current jackpot has been won, therefore completing that game there will be couple of 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. The 5 numbers chosen are to be marked by a cross (X).
- 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.
- If more than one player has 5 winning numbers, the Jackpot will be divided equally among the winning players.
- 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.
- THE DRAW will take place every SUNDAY at 7pm unless otherwise advised.
- The entrant named on the ticket must be at least 16 years of age.
- All winners will be notified.
See you next week sports fans..
CLIVE’S NEWSLETTER – OCTOBER 2024
Slightly later than normal due to the fact that Clive is just back from a month in the sun.
Saturday5th:Banks o’ Dee were the visitors to Seafield Park and prior to the game we confirmed the signings of Stephen Rennie and Kieran Chalmers, a return to the club for both players after earlier spells with the Jags.
A hard-fought game saw the visitors take a 2-1 lead into the break, Kieran Duffty having equalised for STFC following a cross from Caelan Mutch. Chances to level for a second time were missed and Dee added two more goals to seal the points.
Saturday12th:Another home game, with some interesting weather beforehand (see pic below of our brilliant volunteers braving the elements) as Inverurie
Locos ran out 4-0 winners, Nathan Meres scoring a hat-trick while Kieran Chalmers went closest to scoring for the hosts. As with the week before, a Jags side depleted by injury and work commitments, gave their all against another of the Highland League’s stronger sides.
Saturday 19th: A red-letter day, from the supporters’ coach taking Jags fans to Rothes, via lunch at Seafield Park, to a superb performance on the pitch against the team who started the afternoon one place above STFC at the foot of the Highland League.
Goals from Brindle (2), Whitehorn, Race, Chalmers and McShane not only secured a second victory of the season but the goal difference meant the Jags also moved off the bottom of the table and saw Rothes part company with manager Richard Hastings.
Press & Journal subscribers can watch highlights of the game here.
DRAW THE LINE
OUR NEXT GAME IS AT THE HAUGHS, TURRIFF ON SATURDAY
16 NOVEMBER KO 3pm
We finally managed to get the squad photographed – the first time in two years – on Saturday before the Fraserburgh game. – see above….
WALLACE SIGNS
We are delighted to welcome 25-year-old defender Wallace Duffy to Strathspey Thistle on a 3-year deal.
Wallace began his career at Rangers and has since gained valuable experience with clubs like Celtic, St Johnstone and Inverness Caledonian Thistle and was a Scotland Under-19 international . After recently departing Inverness following their unfortunate entry into administration, we’re excited to see Wallace bring his dedication and experience to our squad.
Manager Ryan Esson: “We’re really pleased to add Wallace to the squad. His experience and knowledge will be a huge benefit to all our players, and I’m thrilled he’s agreed to join us. Having worked with him before at Inverness, I know exactly what he brings to the table, and I’m confident he’ll be an important part of what we’re building here.”
Ryan was interviewed in the Press & Journal about the signing and said he was thrilled with his new recruit as he looks to push Strathspey up the table.
He said: “Credit to the owner and the people behind the scenes for making this happen because as soon as I spoke to Wallace and he showed an interest, I went to the directors and they’ve made it happen.
“It’s been a collective effort from the club to sign Wallace and fair play to the people running the club because they’ve got ambitions in terms of the next few years.
“If we can, we want to add quality players like Wallace, and the club is showing ambition on and off the pitch. There is a new hospitality suite and there are various other things happening to move the club forward”.”
When it comes to winning games, Ryan believes Duffy can make a major impact at the heart of Strathspey’s defence.
He added: “Wallace adds real experience, he’s quick, he’s aggressive and he’s good tactically.
“I don’t just want to add bodies for the sake of it – we want to bring quality players to Strathspey and Wallace is a quality player.”
LAST SATURDAY’S BREEDON HIGHLAND LEAGUE GAME v FRASERBURGH FC – report by Ian Davidson edited for the web – full match report in the Strathspey & Badenoch Herald – https://www.strathspey-herald.co.uk
The general consensus of all attending was that the Jags produced their best performance of the season and deservedly came away with a share of the points following a hard fought 2-2 draw.
To a man they gave everything they had in terms of commitment, effort and togetherness as they secured another valuable point in their quest to get themselves out of the relegation zone. They lacked nothing in terms of desire, and with a bit of luck could have secured another famous victory.
It was the visitors who held the upper-hand in the opening period with Euan Storrier called into action twice In the opening ten minutes to blunt the threat of Logan Watt and Scott Barbour.
After twelve minutes, Caelan Mutch raced onto a cross in the box, chipped the ball over the onrushing Joe Barbour before knocking home the opener despite the attentions of Kieran Simpson.
The Broch response was swift as they drew level within three minutes.
Six minutes from the interval the home side should have regained the lead. Caelan Mutch raced onto a slide-rule through ball from Paul Brindle and after rounding the keeper saw his final effort blocked by Kieran Simpson.
Two minutes later Liam Shewan went close when his deft angled lob beat the advancing keeper but agonisingly drifted over the crossbar.
Disaster struck the home side within five minutes of the restart. A corner was flighted into a crowded box, and when the loose ball landed at the feet of striker Logan Watt he poked home the loose ball to give the visitors the lead.
Four minutes later a corner from Liam Shewan was met by Steven MacDonald to bullet home a superb header for the equaliser.
Later, a sweeping move from the home side ended with Stephen Rennie firing a teasing cross into the box with Paul Brindle only inches away from adding the final touch with Barbour looking on anxiously.
With play now swinging from end to end, Jamie Beagrie went close with a header for the visitors and returning after a lengthy injury Jags’ substitute Dylan Lawrence went even closer with a strike that drifted just wide of the far post.
The last twenty minutes saw the home side the likelier to grab a late winner with further efforts from Brindle, Rennie and MacPhee just failing to hit the target.
The look on the faces of the players on the final whistle said it all. Having put so much into the match it felt like a defeat rather than a share of the points. That was how they felt having put so much into the match.
𝗠𝗔𝗡 𝗢𝗙 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗠𝗔𝗧𝗖𝗛
Man of the Match was Steven Macdonald.
Steven was presented with his award from Darren Gould our Match Sponsor Westgate Stainless & Alloys Ltd.
A huge thank you to Westgate Stainless & Alloys Ltd for their incredible support!
Not only did they sponsor our match on Saturday, but they also provided our squad with warm-up tops and jackets at the start of the season. We really appreciate your commitment to the club!
Andy and Darren from Westgate are pictured with Scot Docherty, Lewis Mackie, Kieran Duffty, Jordan Laidlaw, and Club captain James McShane.
NOVEMBER DATES for your diary
INTRODUCING…..LAURA MACKIE
Laura is the Club’s new Commercial Director so, please contact her if you have any questions about match day hospitality, player sponsorship or any other enquiry regarding fund raising ideas.
Email : hospitality@strathspeythistlefc.uk
11 NOVEMBER 2024 – REMEMBRANCE DAY
On behalf of Strathspey Thistle FC, Club Secretary Clive Wolstenholme will lay a wreath during the Remembrance Day Service at the War Memorial in Grantown Square on Sunday 10 November. Spectators arriving for last Saturday’s match against Fraserburgh will have seen Club Historian Rob Clark collecting on behalf of the Royal British Legion Scotland Strathspey Branch Poppy Appeal.
£8400 TO BE WON – THIS WEEK’S JACKPOT PRIZE
As ever we conclude this week by offering you the chance of a jackpot win of a massive £8400 on our online fundraising lottery – click here if you want to play…
LOTTERY CH-CH-CHANGES
After the current jackpot, has been won therefore completing that game, there will be couple of 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. The 5 numbers chosen are to be marked by a cross (X).
- 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.
- If more than one player has 5 winning numbers, the Jackpot will be divided equally among the winning players.
- 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.
- THE DRAW will take place every SUNDAY at 7pm unless otherwise advised.
- The entrant named on the ticket must be at least 16 years of age.
- All winners will be notified.
IN A BROCHEN DREAM
HOME MATCH v FRASERBURGH FC
BREEDON HIGHLAND LEAGUE
SEAFIELD PARK, GRANTOWN-ON-SPEY, PH26 3HE
SATURDAY 2 NOVEMBER 2024 – KO 3pm
This Saturday we welcome Fraserburgh FC’s players, committee and supporters after making the eighty odd mile journey via the A98 and A95 to Seafield Park. Any supporters wanting a refresher in what’s available in Grantown click here for information.
The Broch, currently sitting in eighth position in the Breedon Highland League and coming off a Scottish Cup 2nd Round win against Turriff United last Saturday, are normally a very formidable force and we have no reason on this visit to dispute that.
Last season Fraserburgh finished third in the league in a very closely contested competition, especially in the last month of the season. We had the misfortune to play them twice in seven days during that time, the second time was on the last day of the season at Bellslea Park, and we were very well beaten.
Even allowing for a very tiring end of season run of four games in seven days – a scenario we hope does not ever happen to us again – a lot of the Jags supporters were disappointed with the team’s final performances, especially at Fraserburgh as they seemed to have already given up especially as many were already leaving the club – if my memory serves me correctly only three players from the current squad played both games and there were only two subs on the bench, so times have changed quite dramatically in the Thistle camp!
After our victory two weeks ago at Rothes and with more players returning from injury, hopefully we will give Fraserburgh a far tougher challenge this year, and the Jags fans will go home a lot happier than the last time we played!!
We wish Ryan and the guys all the best.
UPCOMING FIXTURES
There have been some changes to some of the fixtures over the next few weeks so here they are.
Obviously we are now entering the frost and snow part of the season so, please, keep up to date on our Facebook and other social media platforms for up-to-date information.
Next Saturday (9 November) we do not have a game as we failed to beat Clach in the preliminary round of the League Cup, so our next game will be a league game against Turriff United in Turriff on Saturday 16 November with a 3pm kick off.
That game is then followed by a home game at Seafield Park against Huntly FC on Saturday 23 November with a 2pm kick off.
The following week on Saturday 30 November we’re at home again also with a 2pm kick-off against Deveronvale FC, which was scheduled for the 28 December, but has been been brought forward.
We then miss another cup week-end after which we welcome Wick Academy FC for our third home game in a row on Saturday 14 December and is a 3pm kick off.
We then travel to Forres on Saturday 21 December for our return fixture against Forres Mechanics which will be our last scheduled game in 2024.
For more information on future games click here.
MATCHDAY HOSPITALITY OVER THE COMING WEEKS
We are taking hospitality bookings for the remainder of the season.
Sat 23rd Nov – Huntly Football Club
Sat 30th Nov – Deveronvale Football Club
Sat 14th Dec – Wick Academy FC (Festive Jumper Day)
Sat 11th Jan – Buckie Thistle Football Club
Sat 25th Jan – Brechin City FC
Sat 8th Feb – Clachnacuddin FC
Sat 22nd Feb – Nairn County FC
Sat 22nd Mar – Rothes Football Club (Ladies Day)
Sat 12th Apr – Turriff United Football Club
Contact for more information:
Email: hospitality@strathspeythistlefc.uk
LOTTERY REACHES £8300 JACKPOT
As ever we conclude this week’s meanderings offering you a jackpot win of a massive £8300 on our online fundraising lottery – click here if you want to play…
LOTTERY CH-CH-CHANGES
After the current jackpot has been won therefore completing that game, there will be couple of 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. The 5 numbers chosen are to be marked by a cross (X).
- 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.
- If more than one player has 5 winning numbers, the Jackpot will be divided equally among the winning players.
- 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.
- THE DRAW will take place every SUNDAY at 7pm unless otherwise advised.
- The entrant named on the ticket must be at least 16 years of age.
- All winners will be notified.