Orkney FC set for biggest test of the season so far

Orkney FC are due to get their North Caledonian League campaign back underway this Saturday as they are set to host league-leaders Halkirk United at the KGS 3G pitch. In a match that manager Charlie Alway said in this week’s The Orcadian would be the biggest test of his side so far this season, Halkirk are four points clear at the top of the table on 18 points, eight points ahead of fourth-placed Orkney.

Orkney’s last taste of competitive action came at the end of November, and with last weekend’s game against Alness United in the Ness Cup postponed, they will be desperate to get back into league action. Orkney’s home form has been excellent this season with a 100 per cent record so far, yet they have suffered on their travels with just one point to show from four matches away from the county. The islanders record against Halkirk also does not make for good reading, having never beaten them and only gaining a solitary point from five matches.

Mr Alway said that his side’s opponents were “the most complete side, in terms of ability and attitude” in the league but anticipated a close and even contest.

“It will be a good test but if we can get the boys that have been coming to training onto the pitch on Saturday, we will certainly be up for the challenge. With the quality of players on show, each team is going to have spells, it’s just the case of who takes the chances during those spells.”

The two sides will also be keeping a close eye on other results as second-placed Golspie Sutherland, currently sitting on 14 points, travel to third-placed Thurso, just a point ahead of Orkney. That match is scheduled to kick-off at 12 noon.

Kick-off at the KGS 3G pitch is scheduled for 12.30pm.