Champions right to the final whistle of season

NEWTONMORE manager PJ Mackintosh was delighted with his team's performance at Kyles Athletic with victory there rounding off a season to remember in perfect fashion.

Two goals from new boy Ewen Fraser (29th and 36th) and another from veteran Glen MacKintosh (58th) sealed a 3-1 win at Tighnabruaich which has been a difficult venue to win over the years.

The Blue and Whites boss said afterwards: "It wasn't a case of just turning up to collect the trophy. We wanted to finish with a flourish and we did that."

Newtonmore were without Norman Campbell who suffered a broken hand in the previous game against Oban which brought the curtain down one fixture early on his glittering playing career.

Also unavailable were the crocked Evan Menzies; Fraser MacKintosh, who has a broken collar bone while Neil Stewart was unavailable for selection whilst Steven MacDonald was suspended.

But even without such key players the Eilan side proved too strong for their opponents.

Ewen Fraser gave Newtonmore a two-goal half-time lead with goals before the irrepressible MacKintosh got on the scoresheet Robbie MacLeod pulled a goal back on 66 minutes to make it 3-1.

Newtonmore brought on reserve keeper Calum Grover for Kenny Ross with 15 minutes while 15-year-old Sorley Thomson also got a run out. Grover will remember his first appearance as he saved a Kyles a penalty from Scottish international Roddy MacDonald.

The win means that Newtonmore extended their unbeaten run to an incredible 19 matches dating back to mid-May and including only two draws.

After the final whistle 'More captain Andy MacKintosh was presented with the Marine Harvest Premiership trophy.

Newly qualified doctor Fraser, in his first year at the club, was given a start and he made a real impact.

Boss Mackintosh said: "Ewen has been a sub recently but he took his opportunity really well. It's the earliest we have finished a season in living memory and it will be great for the players to get a three month break before training starts in January.

"We kept quiet about how many of our players were carrying injuries lest it be seen as an excuse if we did not win.

"The break could not come at a better time."

With Newtonmore having been written off as an ageing team by commentators who should know better and international defender and last year's captain Rory Kennedy thinks there is still plenty in the tank.

He told the Strathy: "We've won the treble this year because we have a very strong team attitude, we prepare well and put in the commitment that is need at the highest level.

"We have a core of about 12 players from Evan Menzies at 30 or younger – many of whom are just reaching their peak. That should stand us in good stead for next season."

Kennedy added: "We will miss Norman Campbell in defence but Stuart Mitchell and Ian Richardson will be promoted to the first team squad.

"It's up to others to take their opportunity just as Craig Ritchie at 20 has done this year coming into defence and being superb. For me he's been the best under 21 player in the country this season."

Kennedy also praised fellow defender and skipper Andy Mackintosh: "He has a collection of black camans from being captain and he deserves it. He is an example of extremely hard work getting its reward."