Ross-shire teams preparing to kick off North Caledonian League campaign

THE North Caledonian League is set to kick-off the 2023/24 season this week with all Ross-shire teams set to be in action on Saturday.

Alness United, Invergordon and St Duthus along with Loch Ness who are now based in Fortrose have signed up to compete in the competition this season.

The league has been reduced to 12 teams after Nairn County decided to pull their colts team out of the division.

Alness United will be looking for an improved campaign from last season when they start their campaign off against Inverness Athletic at Dalmore Park.

Alness are under new management with Robert Mitchell taking over the position on a permanent basis after former manager Robert MacCormack took over at Highland League club Strathspey Thistle.

Alness finished last season’s campaign in ninth place and will be looking for at least a top half finish.

Invergordon start their campaign on the road when they face a tough clash at Golspie Sutherland.

Invergordon finished last season in second place, only four points off the league champions as manager Gary Campbell will be looking to go one better this season.

Tain outfit St Duthus are also on the road but will still be in Ross-shire as they are due to face Clachnacuddin A at Evanton.

The Saints finished last season in fourth place with manager Alan Geegan encouraged by last season’s performances and will look for better this season.

Elsewhere in the North Caledonian League tomorrow, a Caithness derby takes place at Morrison Park as Halkirk United are scheduled to face Thurso.

Bonar Bridge, who lost 23 of 24 games last season, begin their campaign at home to Fort William.

Champions Loch Ness are in Scottish Cup action tomorrow as they travel to East of Scotland League outfit Luncarty in the preliminary round.

Orkney are the only team not in action.

Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.