First, it was Newtonmore who claimed the trophy with almost clockwork regularity – until 1986 that is – then it became Kingussie's turn.

Some claim more in hope than expectation that the Kings' crown is slipping and their best days are done, but they responded last season with a perfect record.

Nothing in a game between the two great local rivals is ever a given.

Newtonmore have been steadily improving under the guidance of manager Norman 'Brick' MacArthur and are now hitting target more regularly than in recent seasons.

However, ominously for them, Ronald Ross is in fine goal-scoring form for Kingussie, even by his own standards.

The Blue and White's ability to mark Ross out of the game will be key if they are to take the cup back with them to the Eilan – and they will have to get their own forwards on the ball.

Everyone connected with the final will hope it is a showcase for the TV audience; a match that is played in the best of spirits and gives the sometimes over-eager Ted MacDonald no opportunity to wield either colour of card.

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