BONAR BRIDGE FC 4 – 1 ST DUTHUS FC – NORTH CALEDONIAN LEAGUE

Week 33 of the 2025/26 North Caledonian Season seen us feature in our last game of the season against St Duthus FC, also in their final game of the season, at Migdale Park. This was the fourth meeting between the sides after a close cup encounter in February seen Bonar progress after penalties were needed to separate the teams. An improved final league position was available for both sides to finish the season strong in what would be another good battle between the teams.

The game started with both teams looking to settle into the game. Strong wind & rain prevailed from start to finish in the game making conditions challenging for both sides to take control of the game with both sides eager to get the first goal to put their hold on the game. Bonar had the wind in the first half putting pressure on the St Duthus defense and on the 29th minute the first goal of the game arrived. A long throw from Robbie Breen found the head of Bruce Urquhart making it 1-0 to the hosts. St Duthus responded well looking to get straight back into the game, and within 5 minutes a good ball through found Scott Macdonald who turned & finished well to level the proceedings.

Bonar restored their lead on the 37th minute after great work from Aiden Stainke winning the ball down the left wing before delivering into the box. Bruce Urquhart’s shot blocked before Jake Lockett was denied through his shot saved by an arm on the line. Aiden Stainke arrived late finish into an empty nett to give Bonar a goal advantage going into Half Time. 2-1.

The second half started with a change for Bonar. Ally Macleod having to come off through a calf injury as Mark McKernie was Introduced into the Midfield as Bonar looked to see out the win. After moving into Defense, Bruce Urquhart found himself in space on the 53rd minute before playing in Jake Lockett finishing to give the hosts a comfortable lead after rounding the keeper. Good battling in midfield and a strong second half defensive performance meant St Duthus could not get into the game easily. McKernie clearing off the line following a deep corner the best of St Duthus’ chances in the second half. 

Liam Rostock was introduced to the game on the 62nd minute in his final game for St Duthus after 224 matches. After earlier fixtures between the sides this season Liam had already scored 2 goals in 3 games but he couldn’t add to this at Migdale Park. The former Bonar Bridge FC player won the 2008-09 North Caledonian Young Player of the Year while playing for the the Sutherland Club & we wish him all the best in the future.

Aiden Stainke sealed the win for the home side on the 77th minute after a ball through from Archie Ryder before turning & shooting from 30 yards out taking John Allan in the St Duthus goal by surprise to make it 4-1 to Bonar. The game finished with chances for Bonar to increase their lead but couldn’t find the back of the nett again.

A good win & Performance for Bonar Bridge FC to finish off another improved season as we now look ahead to next season. We would like to thank all the supporters for the continued support throughout the season & hope to see you all again next season.