Newtonmore concede first goal in over two months but progress in Artemis Macaulay Cup
“We won it with a wonder save and a wonder goal,” was Newtonmore manager Peter Ross’s assessment after watching his side see off Skye Camanachd 3-1 after extra-time at The Eilan on Saturday.
Newtonmore were without Joe Coyle whilst Skye were at full strength.
The Blue and Whites conceded their first goal since Skye scored at The Eilan back on 12 April when Archie Millar put the Islanders ahead but Iain Robinson levelled soon after.
‘More had most of the play but it took a brilliant Kenny Ross stoppage-time save from Jamie Gillies to force extra-time.
Ross saved well again, this time from Dan MacDonald in the first half of extra-time but the home side took the lead with 11 minutes remaining.
Good play from Declan Brannan saw him play the ball forward and a brilliant turn and shot from substitute Conor Jones, into the top corner of the net, made it 2-1.
This was followed by another Iain Robinson goal minutes after to send ‘More through.
Ross remarked: “I thought we had more pressure but Skye were always dangerous.
“They aren’t far away from being a side that can win things.
“It was two fit teams, and we had some good performances. Struan Ross started the game on fire, Declan Brannan got stronger and stronger as the tie went on and Drew MacDonald was our best forward during his time on the pitch.
“He’s an intelligent player and was using his pace to get to the ball first.
“We have a first team squad of around 17 players and after watching our second team game earlier, there are five or six boys there who are close to making the step up.”
Newtonmore and Kingussie now clash in the Artemis Macaulay Cup semi-finals on Saturday 26 July whilst Oban Camanachd face Glasgow Mid Argyll in the other semi.
‘More travel to face new Mowi Premiership leaders Fort William on Saturday.