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INVERARAY played host, yet again, to a confident Bute side looking for revenge from their cup final defeat two weeks ago. At stake this time was a place in the Hydro Electric Camanachd Cup semi final and neither team relished the thought of being ejected at this stage of the competition.
It was Bute who carried the early promise in this game and deservedly took the lead on four minutes through Ally Carmichael. Inveraray, realising they had a game on their hands, fought back and started playing some fluent shinty that saw some early chances go off target or saved well by the Bute keeper.
Russell McKinlay did get Inveraray back in the game on 16 minutes when he finished well from some forceful direct running from Grant Griffin. He passed to McMurdo down the line who then slipped the ball into McKinley’s path.
This was Inveraray’s best spell in the match and they took the lead through Garry MacPherson. David Robertson flighted a high ball on target from 40 yards and the keeper couldn’t clear - only managing to ricochet the ball off the incoming MacPherson.
Aray could not take full advantage of this lead and continued to struggle in front of goal. Had Bute been better equipped when attacking the Aray defence they may well put Aray under some serious pressure and forced at least a replay.
When the fourth goal did come it was in favour of Inveraray and the delight from the Aray support showed how important they thought the goal was. Again it was McKinlay who finished the game and ultimately put Inveraray through to the semi final.
Although this was not a good performance in comparison to recent weeks, Aray can be pleased that they won this game without really getting out of second gear.
Again everyone involved with the shinty club would like to thank the local businesses for their continued support, especially the George hotel who have recently helped the team buy new tracksuits.
The George has supported the club since it started with Chris’ father Donald an ex-chairman. As well as supplying kit for the team they also provide meals for the visiting players. The club would like to say thank you to the Clark family and all the staff at the George for their support over the years. It makes a big difference to the club.
Inveraray will be on league duty this week but their opponents have yet to be confirmed.
