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Rescheduled Alloa game 7:00pm Tuesday night Weather & Covid permitting... The original preview has been resurrected and irrelevant parts have been greyed out. The section regarding manager John Roberton has been left in as it has been revealed today that he has been granted compassionate leave due to a family bereavement. The club are looking to appoint an interim manager whilst Robbo is away. All at CTO send sincere condolences to John and family and hope everyone gets the support they need. Inverness are due to play Alloa Athletic this weekend, covid and weather permitting. The game is scheduled to kick-off at 3:00pm on Saturday 23rd January. Should it go ahead that will be our first game since 29th December when Dunfermline Athletic came North. There is of course no guarantee's these days with Scotland in lockdown and snow threatening to disrupt sporting events across the country. The aforementioned Dunfermline game ended all square at one apiece. Kerr McInroy rifled the Pars ahead before a second half spectacular twenty-five yarder from Miles Storey earned Inverness a point. Our previous game to that one was an away defeat to the very team we face on Saturday. It ended 2-1 for Alloa despite Inverness taking an early lead through Brad McKay. Unable to build on that, the Wasps sussed us out and once Innes Murray scored with a superb free kick there would only be one winner. The winning goal was gift wrapped by Mark Ridgers. It was an early Christmas present for Robbie Thomson, when from his volley a routine save turned into a blooper when the ball squirmed from his grasp and into the net. Since then we have lost the services of young Kai Kennedy after his loan deal expired. He has since joined Raith Rovers. On top of that Aaron Doran was rendered unavailable after suffering concussion against Dunfermline. However, our inactivity might see Doran declared fit to face Alloa. It's one month since the original fixture was called off. Since then we have played four times, drawing with Morton and Arbroath, disappointingly losing at home to Queen of the South but bouncing back at the weekend to defeat Ayr United 2-0 at Somerset Park. Daniel Mackay and Shane Sutherland with the goals in each half. Importantly David Carson played from the start and put in a MotM performance. The Wasps have been pumped by Raith Rovers (2-5), Dundee (3-1) and Hearts (1-3)since our last meeting. They picked up their only point with a 1-1 draw at home to Morton. Defeat against Hearts had a price tag, Lucas Williamson was red carded late in the game and will miss the game against us. Fast forward one month for the Wasps and they suffered a 4-1 thrashing at Ayr followed by an excellent 2-1 home win over Queen of the South. A home draw with Arbroath led to Saturdays narrow loss at East End Park where word on the street has it that they deserved something from that game. Alloa now find themselves five points adrift at the foot of the table. No room for complacency at Inverness though as we are one of the teams 5 points above Alloa. ***Latest Team News*** David Carson has returned to action and played a big part in the win at Ayr. Danny Devine has been out recently but he also played at Ayr. We are still without Lewis Toshney and Kevin McHattie on long term sickness benefits and they have been joined by Aaron Doran and loan signing Anthony McDonald. James Vincent was missing at Ayr as well. All three picked up injuries in training with Doran and McDonald possibly out for longer term. Peter Grant had this team out against Dunfermline with dangerman Kevin Cawley on target. Team: Parry; Robertson (Thomson 91), Graham, Taggart, Dick, Hetherington Williamson (Brown 90), Scougall, Trouten, Cawley, Cameron Subs: Buchanan, Jamieson, Connelly, Murray, Wright So there you have it, we are up to date now. Last 10 Competitive Meetings 1 - 2 (A) 0 - 2 (A) 1 - 1 (H) 3 - 2 (A) 2 - 0 (A) 2 - 2 (H) 3 - 0 (H) 2 - 1 (A) 3 - 2 (H) 0 - 0 (A) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ LIVE STREAMING £10 Club Statement re- John Robertson & Scott Kellacher Alloa Kick-off 7:00pm ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Manager John Robertson opened up about his own struggles throughout the pandemic and gave everyone food for thought. If someone as effervescent as Robbo is plumbing the depths then we all need to be careful and look out for each other. There has been plenty of reaction to Robbo's thoughts and everyone here at CTO wishes him all the best in what he describes himself as "the hardest year to manage... Things have been so tough during the pandemic that the Caley Thistle boss has even considered walking away from football Taken from a press interview, Robbo said: “It’s been the hardest year to manage: “I’m sure other managers would say the same. My concern is my players’ health and wellbeing. It’s been difficult. “As a manager, you deal with a lot — fallouts with their partners, financial problems, their cars breaking down. A million and one things. “Add all that together and throw in a pandemic that is claiming lives and it’s very difficult. “We’ve had players here who haven’t seen their families for ten months. “I haven’t seen my own children for ten months, or my granddaughter, who was born in November. “We all accept that and get on with it, but it has been very difficult. “I’ve been very down at times. I’ve struggled with my mental health because I’ve had all these added pressures to deal with. “As a manager, I do my best to try and help my players, but who helps me? “I’ve got to go home and chat to my wife about it, but who manages the managers? “I’m lucky I’ve a great relationship with the board and the chief executive and we have chats. “But there have been half a dozen times since March where I’ve felt really low. “Sometimes I have questioned whether I want to keep going because it’s just been so hard seeing what’s happening in the world at the moment. “It doesn’t last very long, you go again. “But I’d be a liar to say it has not affected me.” Championship fixtures this weekend ------------------ League table as at 20th January. Arbroath 1-1 Dundee (Friday) Dunfermline v Ayr United Hearts v Raith Rovers ICT FC v Alloa Athletic Queen of the South v Morton ***Latest Team News*** With our winter holidays since 29th December, I expect to see duracell bunny David Carson getting close to some game time and the same should apply to defender Wallace Duffy. Aaron Doran could be good to go after his enforced down time through concussion. Kevin McHattie and Lewis Toshney will need more time off to fully recover. Robbo has hinted that there are a couple of guys struggling to make this one: "“We’ve got a couple of niggles, the boys have been training very hard. We’ve got a couple of players that we’ll look at on Friday, they may make it but we may not take the chance with the amount of games coming up.” Peter Grant will be without the suspended Lucas Williamson. Kevin Cawley Alan Trouten and Liam Buchanan all offer a goal threat and Innes Murray showed what he can do with a dead ball. Neil Parry was the top shot stopper last season and is a difficult man to get the better of. All in, a tough game on our hands against a team that know how to beat us; hosts beware! -
Rescheduled Alloa game 7:00pm Tuesday night Weather & Covid permitting... The original preview has been resurrected and irrelevant parts have been greyed out. The section regarding manager John Roberton has been left in as it has been revealed today that he has been granted compassionate leave due to a family bereavement. The club are looking to appoint an interim manager whilst Robbo is away. All at CTO send sincere condolences to John and family and hope everyone gets the support they need. Inverness are due to play Alloa Athletic this weekend, covid and weather permitting. The game is scheduled to kick-off at 3:00pm on Saturday 23rd January. Should it go ahead that will be our first game since 29th December when Dunfermline Athletic came North. There is of course no guarantee's these days with Scotland in lockdown and snow threatening to disrupt sporting events across the country. The aforementioned Dunfermline game ended all square at one apiece. Kerr McInroy rifled the Pars ahead before a second half spectacular twenty-five yarder from Miles Storey earned Inverness a point. Our previous game to that one was an away defeat to the very team we face on Saturday. It ended 2-1 for Alloa despite Inverness taking an early lead through Brad McKay. Unable to build on that, the Wasps sussed us out and once Innes Murray scored with a superb free kick there would only be one winner. The winning goal was gift wrapped by Mark Ridgers. It was an early Christmas present for Robbie Thomson, when from his volley a routine save turned into a blooper when the ball squirmed from his grasp and into the net. Since then we have lost the services of young Kai Kennedy after his loan deal expired. He has since joined Raith Rovers. On top of that Aaron Doran was rendered unavailable after suffering concussion against Dunfermline. However, our inactivity might see Doran declared fit to face Alloa. It's one month since the original fixture was called off. Since then we have played four times, drawing with Morton and Arbroath, disappointingly losing at home to Queen of the South but bouncing back at the weekend to defeat Ayr United 2-0 at Somerset Park. Daniel Mackay and Shane Sutherland with the goals in each half. Importantly David Carson played from the start and put in a MotM performance. The Wasps have been pumped by Raith Rovers (2-5), Dundee (3-1) and Hearts (1-3)since our last meeting. They picked up their only point with a 1-1 draw at home to Morton. Defeat against Hearts had a price tag, Lucas Williamson was red carded late in the game and will miss the game against us. Fast forward one month for the Wasps and they suffered a 4-1 thrashing at Ayr followed by an excellent 2-1 home win over Queen of the South. A home draw with Arbroath led to Saturdays narrow loss at East End Park where word on the street has it that they deserved something from that game. Alloa now find themselves five points adrift at the foot of the table. No room for complacency at Inverness though as we are one of the teams 5 points above Alloa. ***Latest Team News*** David Carson has returned to action and played a big part in the win at Ayr. Danny Devine has been out recently but he also played at Ayr. We are still without Lewis Toshney and Kevin McHattie on long term sickness benefits and they have been joined by Aaron Doran and loan signing Anthony McDonald. James Vincent was missing at Ayr as well. All three picked up injuries in training with Doran and McDonald possibly out for longer term. Peter Grant had this team out against Dunfermline with dangerman Kevin Cawley on target. Team: Parry; Robertson (Thomson 91), Graham, Taggart, Dick, Hetherington Williamson (Brown 90), Scougall, Trouten, Cawley, Cameron Subs: Buchanan, Jamieson, Connelly, Murray, Wright So there you have it, we are up to date now. Last 10 Competitive Meetings 1 - 2 (A) 0 - 2 (A) 1 - 1 (H) 3 - 2 (A) 2 - 0 (A) 2 - 2 (H) 3 - 0 (H) 2 - 1 (A) 3 - 2 (H) 0 - 0 (A) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ LIVE STREAMING £10 Club Statement re- John Robertson & Scott Kellacher Alloa Kick-off 7:00pm ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Manager John Robertson opened up about his own struggles throughout the pandemic and gave everyone food for thought. If someone as effervescent as Robbo is plumbing the depths then we all need to be careful and look out for each other. There has been plenty of reaction to Robbo's thoughts and everyone here at CTO wishes him all the best in what he describes himself as "the hardest year to manage... Things have been so tough during the pandemic that the Caley Thistle boss has even considered walking away from football Taken from a press interview, Robbo said: “It’s been the hardest year to manage: “I’m sure other managers would say the same. My concern is my players’ health and wellbeing. It’s been difficult. “As a manager, you deal with a lot — fallouts with their partners, financial problems, their cars breaking down. A million and one things. “Add all that together and throw in a pandemic that is claiming lives and it’s very difficult. “We’ve had players here who haven’t seen their families for ten months. “I haven’t seen my own children for ten months, or my granddaughter, who was born in November. “We all accept that and get on with it, but it has been very difficult. “I’ve been very down at times. I’ve struggled with my mental health because I’ve had all these added pressures to deal with. “As a manager, I do my best to try and help my players, but who helps me? “I’ve got to go home and chat to my wife about it, but who manages the managers? “I’m lucky I’ve a great relationship with the board and the chief executive and we have chats. “But there have been half a dozen times since March where I’ve felt really low. “Sometimes I have questioned whether I want to keep going because it’s just been so hard seeing what’s happening in the world at the moment. “It doesn’t last very long, you go again. “But I’d be a liar to say it has not affected me.” Championship fixtures this weekend ------------------ League table as at 20th January. Arbroath 1-1 Dundee (Friday) Dunfermline v Ayr United Hearts v Raith Rovers ICT FC v Alloa Athletic Queen of the South v Morton ***Latest Team News*** With our winter holidays since 29th December, I expect to see duracell bunny David Carson getting close to some game time and the same should apply to defender Wallace Duffy. Aaron Doran could be good to go after his enforced down time through concussion. Kevin McHattie and Lewis Toshney will need more time off to fully recover. Robbo has hinted that there are a couple of guys struggling to make this one: "“We’ve got a couple of niggles, the boys have been training very hard. We’ve got a couple of players that we’ll look at on Friday, they may make it but we may not take the chance with the amount of games coming up.” Peter Grant will be without the suspended Lucas Williamson. Kevin Cawley Alan Trouten and Liam Buchanan all offer a goal threat and Innes Murray showed what he can do with a dead ball. Neil Parry was the top shot stopper last season and is a difficult man to get the better of. All in, a tough game on our hands against a team that know how to beat us; hosts beware! View full article
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PPV details in this link: https://ictfc.com/match-preview-ayr-utd-a Looks like we will still be without Doran, Vincent and McDonald, plus presumably Toshney and McHattie. A mention of changes, so possibly Carson and MacGregor will start, maybe even Todorov. Time will tell!
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As Robert the Bruce said.... If at first you don't succeed..... It's the second time of asking and we are due to play Arbroath at Gayfield on Wednesday night with a 7:45pm kick-off. This game was re-scheduled from 2nd January due to a frozen pitch on that occasion. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ PPV from Arbroath FC TV @ £12 Official Preview ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ To be perfectly honest, our season is in absolute disarray at the moment with re-scheduled games in abundance. Add in Scottish Cup ties that were postponed, then put on hold, this campaign is a disaster for the Caley Jags. On top of that, our inability to attract players North during the pandemic is a cause for concern when all around us are strengthening their squads. It has certainly raised a few eyebrows and we could be in more danger of staving off relegation than pushing for a top four finish. One bright note is that Scott Allardice has signed on for another couple of years. He has been one of our better bargains and is well worth the contract. Last time out we drew 2-2 at Morton. That may have been seen as a decent result, but when you consider that we threw away a 2-1 lead against ten men for fifty minutes then it simply was not good enough. A point not lost on manager John Robertson who was unusually despondent after the game. Last 10 Competitive Meetings against Arbroath. Click on scores to open out further options. 3 - 1 (H) 0 - 1 (H) 0 - 3 (A) 2 - 1 (H) 0 - 3 (H) 7 - 0 (H) 2 - 0 (A) 2 - 2 (A) 3 - 1 (H) 3 - 1 (A) We did manage to play Arbroath earlier in the season and eased to a 3-1 win in the Highlands. Dan Mackay, Scott Allardice and Nikolay Todorov were the scorers. Allardice's goal was his first for the Caley Jags and what a thumper it was. Kris Doolan scored the opener for Arbroath while Pixellot were following the linesmans head. The Red Lichties last outing was a bonus for them as they beat the very same Morton that we failed to beat at Cappielow. Loan signing Jack Hamilton opened his Smokies account after coming in from Livingston. That result lifted Arbroath off the foot of the table. Incidentally, that was Hamilton's 11th goal of the season, a man worth watching. He had previously been on loan at East Fife and did well up here in the League Cup group stages with the Fifers. Lichties two games before the win at Morton were draws with Dundee and Queen of the South. -
If at first you don't succeed It's the second time of trying to get this match played (postponed from Boxing Day) and that will be the same for another handful of games as a combination of snow, ice, Scottish Cup and covid19 have decimated our campaign. We will be playing catch-up for the foreseeable future with postponed Championship games against Arbroath, Queen of the South, Raith Rovers and Alloa to come, not to mention cup games against Buckie Thistle and possibly Ross County. Our last game was a 1-1 draw with Dunfermline on 29th December. Almost one month ago. Morton drew at Ayr that day and the same 1-1 scoreline at Alloa four days later. They have drawn with the Pars since(0-0) then and went down 2-1 at Dumfries last Saturday. Not the most profitable period for Morton, but at least they have been active. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Live Streaming from Ton TV £14 Kick Off 6:30 - Cappielow Official Preview ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Last 10 Competitive Meetings 3 - 2 (H) 1 - 2 (A) 3 - 1 (H) 5 - 0 (H) 2 - 2 (A) 1 - 0 (H) 2 - 1 (A) 1 - 1 (H) 3 - 0 (A) 0 - 2 (H) Latest Team News Kai Kennedy is now at Raith Rovers and he will be a big miss. Lewis Toshney and Kevin McHattie are not ready for action after long term injuries. Robbo has hinted that there are a couple of new niggly injuries that may require rest with a busy schedule coming up. I wonder if Wallace Duffy, Aaron Doran and David Carson might have benefitted from the enforced lay off and will be looking to get involved with the squad. Places up for grabs now, it's up to those given the opportunity to impress to make the most of it and stake a claim for a regular start. Morton Manager: Anton McElhone Morton team v QotS: McAdams, Ledger, Fjortoft, McGinty, Strapp (Oliver 78′), McAlister, Lyon, Salkeld, Colville, Nesbitt, Orsi. Championship table ahead of tonight's game at Cappielow After losing to Raith Rovers on Saturday, the Jambos gained ample revenge by pumping Raith 4-0 at Stark's Park last night. Regan Hendry of Rovers was sent off five minutes before the break with Hearts already two up. New striker Armand Gnanduillet added a late double. The Dundee v Ayr United game was frozen out. Given the amount of Previews wasted recently, that's all your getting but a tweet from Cappielow at 11:05 AM · Jan 27, 2021 sounds promising. ***In light of enquiries; tonight's match against @ICTFC is on. KO 6.30pm*** What could possibly go wrong -
Frankly Awesome Storm Frank did his best to disrupt this game but the plastic pitch at New Douglas Park stood up to the test and it was game on at a dreich NDP, and Inverness won a thriller 4-3. Eamonn Brophy made his first start of the season for Hamilton at the expense of Carlton Morris. Morris was joined on the bench by Daniel Redmond, Christian Nade and Steven Boyd amongst others. Inverness fielded David Raven once more with Carl Tremarco returning at left back. Still no sign of Josh Meekings. Jordan Roberts was on the bench along with Iain Vigurs, Dani Lopez and Danny Williams. As at Pittodrie, Miles Storey missed a one on one with McGovern coming out on top after nine minutes, deflecting the ball with his legs to keep the score level. Carl Tremarco lifted a ball over to Storey but his shot misses from the angle across the goal. Inverness were getting on top and won a free kick around thirty yards out. Greg Tansey took it and with Michael McGovern not covering himself in glory, the ball ended up high in the centre of the net. Half an hour gone and Frank opens up again, dampening the atmosphere, the players responding by taking shelter on the pitch. Devine broke the monotony, but his header from a corner goes just wide and five minutes before the break David Raven forced McGovern into making a save from close range. Half Time 0-1 So far so good, but can we manage to avoid the late goal syndrome that has afflicted us all season? 154 away fans made the journey in this weather. Absolute nutters to be honest. It's horrendous out there, let's hope they get rewarded for their nuttery. Five minutes into the second period and our new sensation Liam Polworth gave them more hope as he notched our second goal of the game, his third in a row. Raven sent him on his way and he made a bee line for the opposition box before rifling a shot low into the bottom corner. Miles Storey was giving the Accies back line a hard time with his powerful running, causing concern every time he sprints after the ball, and that's enough for some of the Hamilton fans as they leave the building. Carlton Morris replaced Louis Longridge as Accies looked to change things around, but Inverness were content to use the Miles Storey outlet to stretch the home defence. Fon Williams was eventually asked to work saving from Crawford after 65 minutes but they would not be denied moments later as Morris flicks home from six yards to reduce the deficit. Miles Storey caused more panic but was unable to find the net soon after as Inverness fans feel the pressure that comes with losing a two goal lead. Accies were now dominating the game and we were looking like frightened rabbits as the home side went searching for a leveller, Christian Nade coming on for Brophy. The inevitable happened though and ten minutes from the end Ziggy Gordon scored the equaliser with a header. Deja Vu. That was just the start of it though and a frenetic finish to the game would ensue. It looked as though Accies might now go on and win the game, but Tansey got the opportunity of another free kick in the 88th minute and some twenty five yards out. His first one was bludgeoned towards the goal, this one was curled brilliantly over the wall using the elements to fair gain and the ball whistled into the top corner, McGovern could do little about it. But, late goals R us and one minute later Nade was knocking the ball beyond Owain Fon Williams at the other end with his head from a corner. This sparked a mass argument in the Inverness defence amongst themselves, plenty of finger pointing as win bonuses looked to be disappearing once more. However, there was one more twist in the tale during the three minutes of stoppage time. Ross Draper fed Liam Polworth and our new superhero lashed an unstoppable shot across the keeper into the top corner. McGovern had little chance with Tansey's second free kick, he had not an earthly with this one. What a strike from 25 yards, the ball rocketed into the net. Scenes of joy in the away end as we finally ended a game on a high and the long knives were put back in the drawer for another while. Full Time, an incredible 3-4 Storm Frank turned this into some game and no doubt had a hand in some of the spectacular goals on show. I doubt you will see four better strikes in the same game. At one point we were facing throwing away a two goal lead for the second time in a week. Then we faced the prospect of another late, late, goal scuppering us. But, we never gave up and the winning goal was simply unbelievable. Full credit to all the players, Tansey and Polworth outstanding, but the real heroes were the 154 away fans who made the journey amid scenes of biblical proportions. Alternative Maryill, one of our more obsevant fans had this to say about our midfield battlers after yesterdays game. There was plenty to be encouraged by in addition to the final score. The midfield trio Tansey, Polworth and Draper was immense, key to us absolutely controlling the first hour of the game. After being one of our best and most important players last season, Tansey had seemed quieter and less confident in the early part of this season, but on the evidence of yesterday, he is starting to get back to his best. Draper drove us forward, as he apparently did against Aberdeen; we're simply a far better side with him in the team, and we need to get him tied to a new contract asap. And of course, the revelation of St Liam continues. For a good three months now, he has been the bright spot in the team: relentlessly industrious, and positive and dynamic in his passing and the runs he makes, where too many others have been timid and conservative. Yesterday's two goals encapsulated all these qualities and rewarded Polworth for what he brings to the team. The one concern, of course, is that if his ability and influence continue to develop at the pace they have done in the first half of this season, then he might be the next player to follow Christie out the door. Wedderburn also had a good game yesterday, commanding the area in front of the central defence and bringing the three aforementioned players into the game. Vincent, on the other hand, still looks like he doesn't quite know where he should be playing. Date: 30/12/15 Venue: New Douglas Park, Hamilton Attendance: 1555 Referee: Euan Anderson Hamilton: 3 Lineup: McGovern, Gordon, Kurakins, Gillespie, Imrie (Redmond 90), Crawford, Longridge (Morris 58), MacKinnon, Brophy (Nade 81), Tena, Tagliapietra Subs (not used): Martin, Sendles-White, Docherty, Boyd Scorers: Morris (66), Gordon (81), Nade (89) Booked: Gillespie (24), Imrie (87) Sent Off: none Inverness CT: 4 Lineup: Fon-Williams, Raven, Tremarco, Vincent, Warren, Draper, Devine, Wedderburn (Williams 87), Tansey, Polworth, Storey Subs (not used): Esson, Lopez, Roberts, Sho-Silva, Vigurs, Mbuyi-Mutombo Scorers: Tansey (18, 88), Polworth (51,93) Booked: Draper (25), Raven (70), Tansey (83) Sent Off: none -
Ball 8 v Ball 27 Coronavirus trumps all. Scottish Cup games on hold until February at the earliest ***A pitch inspection is planned for Saturday morning after the recent cold spell has left a lot of pitches frozen,*** Following a pitch inspection this morning at Victoria Park, today’s Scottish Cup Second Round tie against Buckie Thistle has been postponed. The match will now be played on Tuesday 12 January 2021, Victoria Park, 8.00pm kick-off That draw means that The Caley Jags will head to Victoria Park Buckie to take on olde Highland League adversaries Buckie Thistle in the second round of the William Hill Scottish Cup on Saturday January 9th, a draw predicted by one of our resident seers Gringo. Unfortunately the game will be covid restricted meaning that no fans will be allowed into the ground to witness the first full competitive match between the sides. The game is scheduled to kick-off at 3:00pm. Buckie Cup snow.mp4 It's not the worst draw to be honest as we have a decent record of putting green and white hooped sides out of the Scottish Cup. A cold winters afternoon, potential banana skin fixture with the possibility of a scalp for the Highland League side. What's not to enjoy about the early rounds of the Scottish Cup. +++++++++++++++ Buckie Jags +++++++++++++++++ Streaming? (waiting for confirmation) Official Preview +++++++++++++++ Caley Jags +++++++++++++++++ Graeme Stewart's Buckie Thistle made their way to the second round of the Cup after an excellent away win at Albion Rovers, beating the Cliftonhill side 3-0. Two goals from Andrew MacAskill, one direct from a corner kick, and a Scott Adams strike were enough to inflict a sixth defeat in seven games for Brian Reid's side. Boss Stewart had played under John Robertson for the Caley Jags from season 1999 to 2003 making 38 appearances, scoring twice. Former Inverness youngsters Kevin Fraser and Andrew MacAskill are at Buckie along with keeper Martin MacKinnon who is on loan at present. Stewart's assistant manager Lewis MacKinnon is also on the books as a player, so great incentive for these guys to do well against their former club. John Robertson has lost the services of Kai Kennedy to covid. The exciting prospect has returned to parent club Rangers as he has signed a new contract and it is believed he will be loaned out to Raith Rovers. More detail can be found at ICTFC. It is believed "he found the pandemic restrictions and the fact he was so far away from his family particularly difficult and became increasingly, and understandably, homesick". Awwww, you OK hun? He will be a massive miss at the Caledonian Stadium for the rest of this season especially on top of the news that Aaron Doran will likely miss out for a couple of weeks after suffering concussion in the game against Dunfermline Athletic just before the bells. This should open the door for Daniel Mackay to return to the starting XI as a wide forward. Maybe we would have seen the likes of David Carson if he wasn't suspended, as his energy is missed in midfield and there's no guarantee that Sean Welsh will stay injury free for a run of games. Kevin McHattie is another we have yet to see re-appear after pre-season injury. ***Latest Team News from the ICT camp*** David Carson and Brad Mckay are suspended for this Cup game. Aaron Doran is out after suffering concussion against the Pars and Kevin McHattie and Lewis Toshney are at least a month away from making a comeback. I expect that will smooth the way for Wallace Duffy to return with possibly Daniel Mackay replacing Kennedy/Doran. Scottish Cup Flashback.... Some strike by Duthie. Boom!
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***GAME OFF*** Game put on ice! After a pitch inspection which was planned for 08:30 @Gayfield on Saturday morning the game has been called off due to a frozen pitch. They might have got away with it until the match official spotted Torvill & Dean practicing the Bolero near the penalty box. Before you get too drunk, we have a game on the 2nd January Have a safe New Year to one and all.
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Here's hoping for a better year Game put on ice! After a pitch inspection which was planned for 08:30 @Gayfield on Saturday morning the game has been called off due to a frozen pitch. They might have got away with it until the match official spotted Torvill & Dean practicing the Bolero near the penalty box. We first foot the Smokies on the 2nd of January 2021. It's a New Year, but unfortunately the same old shit as it's a covid restricted game with no fans allowed. The game kicks-off at 3:00pm on Saturday with Arbroath stuck at the foot of the table and Inverness in seventh place. Maybe more appropriate to take a roll of ShitBegone instead of a lump of coal! Who will win the real battle Football is a mere sideshow Stay safe everyone Championship after matchday 10 ******* All Championship fixtures 3:00pm Saturday Arbroath v Inverness CT Alloa Ath v Greenock Morton Pars v Raith Rovers Queens v Ayr United Dundee v Hearts Our last three fixtures against Arbroath have not been too encouraging only one win and two defeats. We suffered a heavy 3-0 defeat at Gayfield last season as we were smoked by the Red Lichties who also beat us 1-0 at the Caledonian Stadium. We got the better of them this term winning 3-1 at the end of October when Kris Doolan opened the scoring in the first half. However three second half goals through Daniel Mackay, Scott Allardice and Nikolay Todorov turned the game around and saw us ease home to take the points. 3 - 1 (H) 0 - 1 (H) 0 - 3 (A) OFFICIAL PREVIEW Arbroath went down 3-1 to table toppers Hearts at Tynecastle. No surprise really and nothing to see here, so move along. A seven minute hat-trick from Steven Naismith put Hearts in control. To their credit Arbroath battled hard and scored early in the second half through Kris Doolan but it was always going to be a difficult task for the part timers. Inverness drew with Dunfermline in the Highlands on the same night. Kyle Turner got the break of the ball to finish tidily in the first half for the Pars. It took a stunning left footed strike from Miles Story to earn a point for Inverness in what was an equally balanced game where both managers felt they did enough to take all three points. It's been a difficult start to the campaign for both clubs, Inverness' injury problems were well documented since the start of the season and just as we thought we were over it, a wee visit to Alloa soon brought us back to earth as we slumped to a 2-1 defeat. Dick Campbell does not have his troubles to seek and without being unkind, its difficult to see them being anywhere else in the table other that trying to stave off relegation along with Queen of the South and Alloa Athletic. In saying that, any team in this league can win on their day and no result is a given, apart from maybe Hearts who will be a certainty for promotion unless Dundee can get stronger throughout the shortened season. Just look at last season where part of our own downfall was losing games to teams in the bottom section of the table. We should be going to Gayfield with confidence and optimism, but try telling the fans that as we know all to vividly what can happen. Aaron Doran came off at half-time against Dunfermline and Danny Devine left the field as the game came to a climax. Maybe Wallace Duffy will come back in and Kai Kennedy should continue to replace Doran. We looked livelier once he came on against the Pars. David Carson is another who could be making an appearance soon, we miss his tenacity and box to box energy which is a better option than the stoic efforts of James Vincent, bless. Latest Team news Aaron Doran is out for at least two weeks after suffering concussion against Dunfermline. He will also miss the Scottish Cup clash against Buckie Thistle. More sad news so soon after Jim McLean, it was announced today that Tommy Docherty has passed away. Two great managers in the space of a handful of days. RIP. Take a bow Miles Storey.........OOOOFT Don't forget your weekly dose of The Wyness Shuffle. Allow The Wyness Shuffle to ease you through the pain of the post-Christmas lockdown with this bumper Yuletide episode. Alongside the usual reviews of recent matches and previews of games in a busy festive period, we find out who is the brains of the ICT dressing room. Great work once more from the Shufflers-
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Pars visit Second placed Dunfermline Athletic head North on Tuesday 29th December for a 6:30pm kick-off at the Caledonian Stadium as we move into the second phase of this seasons shortened Championship. No fans of course as we have now been plunged into tier 4 for covid 19. The game can be streamed live, see tweet below from ICTFC. Sad news this week with the passing of Jim McLean. Former Dundee United manager who dared to build a team that Would go on to beat Barcelona home and away twice. Condolences to his family and friends and the extended football world who knew his worth. One of the great managers to grace the Scottish game. RIP It all started back in October when we went to East End Park for the first game of the season under covid19 restrictions. The Pars proved to be too strong for an injury decimated Caley Jags who conceded two goals in the final twelve minutes to take the points in a 3-1 win. Nikolay Todorov had given Inverness a second minute lead before captain Euan Murray levelled after twenty. Unfortunately two goals saw the Pars run out winners, Ryan Dow and Declan McManus with a belter were the late scorers. We were inactive on Boxing Day as storm Bella drenched Cappielow and the game was called off around 10:00am. The previous week we earned zero points as we slumped at Recreation Park after taking an early lead through Brad Mckay. A stunning free kick from Innes Murray drew the Wasps level before a Mark Ridgers blunder gift wrapped the points for Alloa after Robbie Thomson volleyed towards goal. Whilst we were undermining our recent recovery, the Pars took four points from their last two games. A tremendous three goal comeback at Dens Park was backed up by a hard earned win over Arbroath on Boxing Day, Kevin O'Hara with a 91st minute winner as Owain Fon Williams kept the Red Lichties at bay. At Dens Park the hosts had taken a three goal lead which they held until the 78th minute. Goals from Watson, McManus and a 93rd minute equaliser from man of the moment Kevin O'Hara earned a point for the Fifers. What a signing he has been. With our game against Morton having been postponed, I would hazard a guess that Robbo will still be looking at making one or two changes with Wallace Duffy now ready to return to action. I doubt there will be sweeping changes although starting Aaron Doran might be an option with Kai Kennedy being kept quiet over the last couple of weeks and could be more of an impact player later in the game. Dunfermline will not need to alter much, if it's not broken, don't fix it. Here's their starting XI for the Arbroath game. 1 Owain Fôn Williams; 22 Lewis Mayo, 44 Paul Watson, 5 Euan Murray (c), 3 Josh Edwards, 16 Steven Whittaker, 11 Ryan Dow, 8 Kyle Turner, 15 Iain Wilson, 23 Dom Thomas, 10 Declan McManus. At the moment, this is how I see it. The Pars look likeliest to keep second place for themselves with Dundee shaping up for third. That leaves Raith, Ayr, Morton and ourselves scrapping for the final play-off position. A lot can change between now and the end of the season, but you would expect Dundee and Pars being able to strengthen as required and us and the rest having to make do with what we have. As a distraction to the weekly Championship games, the second round draw for the Scottish Cup takes place on Tuesday evening. The 2020/21 Second Round draw takes place tomorrow at 7:15pm on the ScottishCup YouTube and Facebook page. ICTFC will be ball number 27 in the draw...aaaand we are away to ball 8 Any further team news will be added to preview when available. Here's a wee tune to see us through the winter of woe... -
No Post Turkey Trot @ Cappielow ***GAME OFF*** Waterlogged pitch After a pitch inspection at 09:45 this morning the game at Cappielow has been called off due to a waterlogged pitch. The game has still to be re-scheduled but will now be after New Year given the fixture is already in place for the 29th December against Dunfermline Athletic at the Caledonian Stadium. After an inexplicable collapse last week at Alloa, Inverness face an even tougher task on Boxing Day as they head for Greenock to take on form side Morton, who have jumped up to third in the table after excellent back to back wins over Queen of the South and Dunfermline Athletic. The game will kick off @3:00pm with covid restrictions in place meaning no fans in attendance at a down to earth rustic Cappielow. After a deserved win at East End Park for the Ton, they backed that up by beating struggling Queen of the South 2-0 on Saturday. Kalvin Orsi scored his first two goals of the season; a close range shot and a second half header from similar distance. The added bonus for the Greenock side is that interim manager Anton McElhone has been given the job at Cappielow until the end of the season after David Hopkins' departure. ********************************************* ‘TonTV Streaming Information Saturday’s game will be available to watch live for £14 on ‘TonTV. Supporters are asked to purchase in advance where possible to avoid any excessive online traffic before the coverage starts at 2.45pm. ********************************************* As all around us were dropping points, we failed to capitalise and capitulated worryingly at recreation Park. Most of that was of our own doing apart from a stunning free kick from Innes Murray, worth another look to be honest. After Brad Mckay had lashed in an early goal from close range we struggled to impose ourselves on the match and as Alloa grew in confidence, we regressed. Too many needless free kicks around the box led to the spectacular opener from Murray which Ridgers could do nothing about. However, he won't want to see the second goal as a simple collection squirmed out of his grasp and into the net. Oops, butterfingers was the cry heard in living rooms around the North. The disappointing aspect of this defeat was confirmed at 5:00pm as all other results would have been exactly as we would have wanted had we done our own job and won. Credit to Alloa, zilch for us. Boom! Worth noting that the village team from Dingwall are all heart in the lead up to Christmas and have offered a jobless man work for the next few months. It's a heartwarming festive tale that will see John Hughes try to scrape Dross County (damn you predictive text) off the bottom of the Premiership before the end of the season. Aye, good luck with that Yogi, some guid honest laddies there. Championship games on Boxing day, all 3:00pm kick-offs. Alloa Ath v Raith Rovers Dunfermline v Arbroath Hearts v Ayr United Queens v Dundee Morton v Inverness CT John Robertson had gone with an unchanged side for the third week in a row at Alloa. Maybe it's time to freshen up with Sean Welsh, Nikolay Todorov and Aaron Doran all starting from the bench and David Carson getting closer to match fitness. Certainly it seemed that we ran out of ideas quickly at Alloa and could not inject any urgency after the Waspies started buzzing. We were one paced and one dimensional which was a massive reality check given that the part timers had played a gruelling midweek cup tie against Hibs prior to our visit. Difficult to spot the full timers on that evidence. Robbo has said that Wallace Duffy is ready for selection and changes will be made with a hectic three game schedule coming up. Morton had this team against Queen of the South: McAdams; Ledger, McLean, McGinty, Strapp, Lyon, McAlister (Omar 69′), Salkeld (Nesbitt 66′), Muirhead, McPake (Oliver 77′), Orsi. OFFICIAL PREVIEW FROM ICTFC Robbo Shuffling -
Wasps Waiting for their Jags Its a visit to Clackmannanshire for the Caley Jags on Saturday as they take on the Wasps at the Indodrill Stadium; that's Recreation Park to you and me. The game kicks off at 3:00pm and unfortunately covid restrictions mean there will be no crowd in attendance. The good news though is the game can be streamed live from Alloa FC on PPV for £12, details of which are in the Alloa tweet below. Beats Xmas shopping so get yourself registered and log in for the game. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ OFFICIAL PREVIEW FROM ICTFC Alloa PPV INFO ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Inverness dropped two points last week as Dundee scored late to earn a point at the Caledonian Stadium. It was a see-saw game where Dundee took a first half lead through Liam Fontaine before two goals in quick succession from Robbie Deas, his first in blue, and James Keatings, changed the game. It was no more than Inverness deserved at that point but Jordan McGhee popped up with the equaliser for a share of the points. It was a decent performance in front of a covid restricted 300 fans against a side who are beginning to gel after a slow start to the campaign. There's no doubting the quality of McPake's individuals, but individuals do not maketh a team. However, I expect Dundee to make the top four come the end of the season, and on last weeks evidence it looks likely that we will join them. Alloa beat Arbroath last week at the bottom end of the table to lift them above the Lichties. The only goal of the game came from Stephan Scougall ten minutes from the end. They also played in midweek and almost pulled off a shock result against Hibernian in the League Cup but they fell just short of causing an upset. It was looking like a capital double for the Wasps in the League Cup but they couldn't quite hold on. They had led through a first half own goal, the ball bouncing off Hanlon. That was a lead they held until the hour when Hibs scored twice. Doidge with the first then another own goal from Alloa's Jamieson in the 83rd minute was enough to put Hibs into the semi-finals where they will face St Johnstone. Livi will play Rangers conquerors St Mirren in the other semi. Great effort from Alloa though and given the result against Arbroath, it can be seen as a positive week and a possible springboard for the season. Philosophical as ever........ Other Championship games this weekend, all Saturday afternoon. Arbroath v Ayr United Dundee FC v Dunfermline Morton FC v Queen of the South Hearts have a Scottish Cup Final to play against Celtic on Sunday at 2:15pm. Mon the Championship side. We are all Hearts! The Highlanders injury crisis is thankfully on the wane with only longer term casualties Kevin McHattie, Lewis Toshney and David Carson still receiving treatment. Carson is nearest to recovery and has started training. Shane Sutherland took a knock last week and news on his progress is awaited. Wallace Duffy is on the mend but this weekend might be too soon for him after his recent knee injury. No matter anyway as the young players have taken to this Championship football malarkey like a duck to water. So much so that the likes of Sean Welsh, James Vincent, Aaron Doran and Nikolay Todorov have to be content with starting from the bench in last couple of games. Robbie Deas will meet up with some of his Alloa buddies from last season after his move to the Caley Jags over the summer break. Alloa boss Peter Grant might have some weary legs to contend with after the battling performance against Hibs in midweek. They were without Scott Taggart and Ray Grant against Hibs. After an incredible 8,490 consecutive minutes playing for Alloa, Taggart's run ended in November and he is now in crutches and will be out for a few weeks. Murder! Grant has a hamstring injury. Kevin Cawley and the experienced Alan Trouten will be the ones to watch up front and Neil Parry will be a safe pair of hands between the sticks. The Wasps did lose one Kevin since last season. No, not Kevin the carrot, but striker Kevin O'Hara who is now at East End Park and will be a big miss. They are undoubtedly weaker since last term with players moving on but should not be underestimated as Hearts found out in the League Cup with Hibs almost going the same way. Always a difficult fixture to take all three points and this one will be no different, nothing but 100% will be good enough for the three points, but it's a great opportunity to put some pressure on the clubs above with Raith Rovers idle and Dundee and the Pars clashing at Dens Park. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ RIG also has this preview ahead of tomorrows game. It's more upbeat and word on the streets, down with the kids and all that sort of stuff. The lack of activity on the site ahead of the visit of the big man in red has prompted this start... Erm, we have a game tomorrow right? Or is not being able to go to games just killing interest in football at the minute? After playing Alloa a record 28 times last season this is the first of a mere 3 fixtures against them in this campaign. Fairly makes you pine for a pie in a roll. Despite playing well last season Alloa were often found languishing towards the bottom of the league and things are much the same this season. Except Alloa aren't playing well. They lost some important players at the end of last season like Kevin O'Hara, Robbie Deas, Iain Flannigan and Scott Banks. No wonder they aren't doing as well! Games between the two sides have been pretty entertaining in the last couple of seasons including an enthralling Scottish Cup tie which we won with a late Charlie Trafford header. Wait, Trafford...header...winning goal...nope that's what it says. Anyway, yours truly lost his mind with that goal after one too many fruit ciders and can be seen falling over the advertising boards at the end of this video Alloa use the Pixellot camera system for their games, as I understand it, but they don't seem to have been plagued by the same problems at Inverness for whatever reason. So perhaps you can be a bit more confident if you choose to part with a mere £12 to watch us "swat" the wasps aside or might we be "stung" by the home side? https://live.alloaathletic.co.uk/event/5fc50c9c9e8ec810c40e6cb3 Don't forget your weekly dose of Wyness Shuffle. The guys are doing a tremendous job putting these Podcasts together for you, so have a listen. Here's what the last one was about Find the Whistleblower The Shuffle is back… with Roddy MacGregor, Charlie Christie, the 300, views from Dundee, all the autumn action analysis, Initiation Songs, the Nightmare XI plus a look forward to December’s Xmas crackers.-
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Dark Blue Visit Matchday 7 on Saturday as Dundee head North to the Caledonian Stadium to take on the Caley Jags in a battle for mid-table supremacy. The game kicks-off at 3:00pm with a selected crowd of 300 allowed to attend this game in a tier 1 covid zone. Both sides got off to an inauspicious start to the campaign but are edging upwards recently. Something has to give. last time the clubs met was in front of over 5,000 fans at Dens Park. First half goals from Aaron Doran and James Keatings put Inverness second in the table with Dundee six points behind in fourth. All this was in a previous life before covid19 came along and closed the world. ÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷ PPV Info Official Preview SPFL Matchcentre instructions Shane v Roddy How to get into the game Happy Birthday Cammy Mackay 21 ÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷÷ We made for pleasant viewing last Friday night in the televised game on BBC Scotland as we bageled Queen of the South 3-0. A game we largely dominated and scored three superb goals into the bargain. Kai Kennedy opened his big boy account via the keepers leg. Roddy MacGregor scored his second for the club with a marvellous 20 yard first time shot and Miles Storey completed the scoring, rifling a low shot into the bottom corner from fifteen yards. Great entertainment all round and coming off the back of a solid display and win over Raith Rovers, an encouraging performance that sees us climb into the middle of the table. Dundee edged out Arbroath 1-0 last week and have quietly eased themselves into contention in the middle of the table two points below Inverness. Paul McGowan made the difference with a superb solo goal. Both clubs have made their way to the middle of the table after a poor start to the season, and like Dundee, Inverness will be looking to get into the top four behind Hearts. However Dunfermline, Raith Rovers and Ayr United will have something to say about that with Ayr playing Raith on Friday night. With Ayr and Raith Rovers drawing, the incentive is there for Inverness to climb up to third in the table should they beat Dundee. Table ahead of Friday night's game and Other Championship games this weekend, Saturday @ 3:00pm unless stated. Ayr United 0-FT-0 Raith Rovers (Friday) Arbroath v Alloa Athletic Dunfermline v Morton Fc Hearts Fc v Queen of the South John Robertson has seen an upturn on the injury crisis in recent weeks with only Kevin McHattie and Lewis Toshney on the longer term list with David Carson back training but not fully match ready yet. Either way, the young players that have come into the side since the start of the season have been performing well. The likes of Roddy MacGregor, Cameron Harper and loan signing Kai Kennedy have been a joy to watch over the last couple of games and will be difficult to shift. Kennedy has been superb and every defender in this league will need to keep a close eye on him. Miles Storey for all his wastefulness can help to create for others and with James Keating getting up to speed thing are looking up. A couple of our young team have gone on loan to Highland League clubs. Midfielder Lewis Hyde joins Rothes until January. Shane Harkness is already at Mackessack Park. Defender Ryan Fyffe is off to local team Clachnacuddin until January. Good luck to all these guys as they look for some first team action. Don't be looking for many if any changes from the last couple of games. Jake McPake has been under pressure since the start of the league. A 6-2 hammering from Hearts opened their campaign but they have crawled upward since and are just above the drop zone.Paul McGowan has been in fine form, love him or hate him, but he is certainly a talented footballer. With the experienced Charlie Adam in the side, Dundee will provide a sterner test than hapless Queen of the South last week and this could well be a tight affair. Keeper Jack Hamilton is coming under scrutiny as the defence has been leaking goals and Adam Legzdins and Calum Ferrie are looking to get their hands in the gloves. However Hamilton pulled off some great stops against Arbroath last week and was crucial in their 1-0 win over the Lichties. Graham Dorrans has left the building but Osman Sow could be a big signing for the Dark Blues. The Wyness shufflers have been busy and they are looking for the grass. Takes all kinds I suppose, each to their own. Another great episode from the guys. Have a listen. Find the Whistleblower Running Order: 01.20 Disease & Vaccine The boys kick off by topically picking if X is the disease, what is the vaccine? 04.21 Charlie Christie Charlie sits down to discuss the season so far plus a certain recent Scotland game. 20.32 Game by Game All the action from the matches against Arbroath, Hearts, East Fife and Raith. 33.47 The 300 We talk to two of the lucky ICT fans who were at the home game v Raith. 41.20 Initiation Songs Just what songs have various players sung over the years? 43.54 Gary Cocker Host of Dundee FC podcast Walking Down the Provie Road, and sometime Terrace TV contributor, Gary Cocker runs us through the Dark Blues dismal season to date. 54.53 League Lookahead We preview the matches against Queens, Dundee and Alloa. 1.03.53 Roddy MacGregor Young Superstar Roddy pops by for a chat about the season. 1.16.44 Nightmare XI Another shocking footballer is added to the hallowed ranks. 1.20.38 Outro and the TWS mug!-
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League Cup Group A Back to league cup duty Tuesday night and it's a tough task ahead as we face Raith Rovers at Starks Park, Kirkaldy, the game has a 7:45pm kick-off. Usual covid restrictions with fans unable to attend although the action can be seen on Raith TV. The other Group A game features East Fife at home to Hearts, and that's the top of the table clash. Who knew? Rovers are romping along in the Championship with three wins and a draw. They are top scorers with fourteen goals, the latest a five goal drubbing of Morton on Saturday. They also put five past Queen of the South and are the form team at the moment. They sit above Inverness in Group A of the Betfred League Cup having beaten East Fife but losing 3-1 to Hearts who top the group. Raith have made this game available on a PPV basis, but first you have to log in to RAITH TV. Once logged in you can then select the PPV option for this game at the reasonable price of £9.99. Take note Hearts! While Raith were thrashing Morton on Saturday we were going down 2-1 at Tynecastle. We gave a resolute performance without over exerting Craig Gordon. However, Hearts were left clinging on in the final ten minutes after Aaron Doran glanced home a tidy header that had Gordon sprawling across his goal in vain as the ball nestled in the corner of his net. Rovers and John McGlynn have recruited wisely since promotion and look likely to maintain their push for a top four finish. Jamie MacDonald is between the sticks. Important player in our Scottish Cup win over Falkirk, but nonetheless an excellent keeper on his day. Reghan Tumilty, an experienced defender once of Ross County. Manny Duku, a man of many clubs, born in Amsterdam with an eye for goal. German Lars Lokotch is on loan from Livingston and is a handful for defenders. Defender Frankie Musonda comes in from Luton Town and midfielder Ethan Ross is on loan from Aberdeen. Gozie Ugwu is another burly striker who was at Pars once upon a time. The addition of these players along with youngsters stepping up and the remainder of last seasons promotion winning squad will see Rovers staying at the business end of the table throughout the season. Our injury list could only get better and we saw Shane Sutherland and Aaron Doran come off the bench with James Vincent and Danny Devine remaining seated. The next two League Cup encounters will give us a chance to ease these players back into match routines. It may be too soon for Miles Storey, Kevin McHattie, David Carson and Lewis Toshney but at least our bench is looking stronger. Here's Johnny.... With Hearts running away with Group A, it's a great opportunity for both clubs to test the water and this might be the occasion to do it before the teams meet again in a couple of weeks on Championship duty. I won't be reading too much into this result as Robbo has always said that the League Cup is not his priority although it's always nice to put on a decent performance and get some positives from the game. The eight group winners qualify for the next stage along with the four best placed second teams. They are then joined by Scotland's Euro representatives in the next stage. Celtic, Rangers, Motherwell and Aberdeen. The seeded teams in the last 16 are the four European clubs and the four group winners with the best records. The tournament reverts to a traditional knock-out format from the second round onwards, with ties decided by extra time and penalties if the scores are level after 90 minutes. Meh, the League Cup, it's not for everyone..... Milestones & Memories Lest we forget, it's getting close to the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month.... Many made the ultimate sacrifice. Many never came home. They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning We will remember them… Laurence Binyon -
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Queens visit Another Tuesday, another game at the Caledonian Stadium, this time we host Queen of the South looking to get over the disappointment of a poor result at Alloa on Saturday. The game kicks off at 7:45pm. At the weekend, we went down to the Wasps who were absolutely buzzing. Only two goals which flattered Inverness who also saw a host of opportunities wasted. First half goals from Lee Connelly and Kevin O'Hara saw us leave Clackmannanshire empty handed. However, the disappointment was tempered by the fact that we actually gained a point over our nearest challengers over the week as all other sides drew again. I know, I know, it's clutching at straws a wee bit, but it's all we've got to be happy about after a grim week. Queen of the South went ahead in midweek only for Dunfermline Athletic to peg them back with a penalty just after half time. Gary Oliver had put Queens on their way to their first win in nine games but Jonathan Afolabi levelled from the spot. The Doonhamers have slipped into the play-off slot at the wrong end of the league thanks to Alloa beating us. However, we are still closer to them on points than we are to league leaders Dundee United. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Match Info Tickets Sports Bar Official report v Alloa Digital Matchday Programme ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Two other games on Tuesday night Partick Thistle v Dunfermline Athletic Dundee v Ayr United Queen of the South play Ayr United on Friday night. This is the third meeting between the clubs this season with Inverness victorious in the first two games, both 2-0 wins home and away. Queens are close to the relegation danger zone and will be looking to rectify that so expect a tough encounter where on their day, any team is capable of beating anyone in the league. Given our reluctance to beat teams in the bottom half of the league, this will not be an easy task. Hopefully the rude awakening at Alloa will stir the team and get us back on track. Sean Welsh and James Vincent missed the game at Recreation Park and Lewis Toshney came off injured after only three minutes. The news regarding Toshney is not great, he is expected to be out for at least a month with an injury to his quad muscle, and that leaves us wafer thin at the back with the run-in and Chocolate biscuit cup coming up. Once more Queen of the South will be relying heavily on top scorer Stephen Dobbie. Always a threat, Dobbie has eleven goals to his credit this term, meagre by his own standards. However, he is one of the best finishers in the Championship. Ignore him at your peril......... Simon Macdonald RIP The funeral service will take place on Wednesday 11 March at 12.30pm in the Funeral Home of William T Fraser and Son, Culduthel Road, Inverness, IV2 6AB, and thereafter to Kilvean Cemetery. All friends and colleagues past and present welcome. Family flowers only please, and money donations to the Scottish Burned Children’s Club welcome. As a mark of respect for Simon, the Fans will do their own tribute at the Challenge Cup Final against Raith Rovers. We're planning on having a minutes applause in the 44th minute for Simon / Bronson during this game. Something to note for later this month and feel free to make others around you at the game aware. -
A spot of Recreation After a good set of results in midweek, the Caley Jags head to Recreation Park Alloa, looking to consolidate their position in second place in the Championship, the game kicking off at 3:00pm. Inverness were the only team to win in midweek as the other four games ended goalless. This will be the sixth meeting between the sides this season, with Inverness having three wins, the other two games were draws. Last time together we struggled to a 1-1 draw against the Wasps. A first half penalty was tucked away by Iain Flannigan but Jordan White rescued our day with a goal on the hour. Last time at Recreation Park we were on Scottish Cup duty and edged out Alloa 2-3 thanks to a late goal from Charlie Trafford. Alloa's top scorer Kevin O'Hara scored twice to square matters after Aaron Doran and Jordan White had Inverness ahead twice. We never find it easy on the artificial surface and I expect it will be no different this time round. Championship fixtures this weekend Aloa Athletic v Inverness CT Ayr United v Dundee Dundee Utd v Partick Thistle Dunfermline v Queen of the South Morton v Arbroath Here's Johnny.............. OFFICIAL PREVIEW Sean Welsh and James Vincent missed out in midweek but Lewis Toshney added some much needed solidarity to our defence. Brad Mckay will be available for selection after his red card against Hibs in the Scottish Cup and Robbo is hopeful Vincent will be added to the squad. Alloa's main threat will be 14 goal Kevin O'Hara although he is not the only player we need to be wary of. Kevin Cawley, and Alan Trouten are well aware how to find the back of the net, and at the other end Neil Parry made a welcome return to the goals, shutting Dundee out with a tremendous performance in midweek. That's some save by Neil Parry in midweek................. Bronson It should be noted that after the passing of the legend that is Bronson, his funeral arrangements have been released. RIP Simon. On behalf Simon’s immediate family, we would like to express our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been in touch, shared their memories of him and offered their support. It has been truly humbling – we knew he was a great bloke, but this has surpassed even our expectations. His death will leave a huge hole in the hearts and lives of all who knew him. The funeral service will take place on Wednesday 11 March at 12.30pm in the Funeral Home of William T Fraser and Son, Culduthel Road, Inverness, IV2 6AB, and thereafter to Kilvean Cemetery. All friends and colleagues past and present welcome. Family flowers only please, and money donations to the Scottish Burned Children’s Club welcome. Please share this information with anyone else you think would like to know. — feeling heartbroken. As a mark of respect for Simon, the Fans will do their own tribute at the Challenge Cup Final against Raith Rovers. We're planning on having a minutes applause in the 44th minute for Simon / Bronson during this game. Something to note for later this month and feel free to make others around you at the game aware. -
Raise a glass for Bronson One of the Championship's form teams venture North on Tuesday night in the shape of Greenock Morton. With 10 points from their last six games, only Arbroath can better that with 12 points. Our tally over the last six is a mere 7 points. The game has a 7:45 kick-off time as our hectic schedule kicks in. We went down heavily at Easter Road as the last Championship side standing. It ended 5-2 and we finished the game down to ten men, beaten, but not bowed. Morton made the most of their Saturday game as they thrashed Queen of the South 4-0. The goals came from Tumilty, Nesbitt, Cadden and McGuffie, that's 12 goals in their last four games including a 2-1 win at Somerset Park. Brad Mckay is suspended and James Keatings and James Vincent are doubts. OFFICIAL PREVIEW Robbo talking pre-match Sadly, football takes a back seat this week after news that one of our own larger than life fans has passed away with so much still to offer. No one saw it coming, no one saw the signs. Everyone thinks that men are so tough they don't give a shit. Well I have news for you. Men do care, men hurt, men cry, men can do all these things. It's OK to be not OK. Men need help as well so please please please tell someone, talk to your best buddy. More people understand than they will tell you. Many of us have felt low at some point. It's not something to be ashamed of, but help is out there, speak about it, please. Rip 'Bronson' a nicer guy you would struggle to find anywhere. It's difficult to come to terms with this. For his family and close friends, this is sad times, but please, be comforted in the knowledge that Simon was well loved and will be sorely missed. Heartbroken is a word used too readily, it is the word to describe the feeling amongst all who had the privilege and honour of being in Simon's company. Gringo posted this lovely heartfelt tribute to Simon. Words can not explain how I feel right now. Today I heard of the passing of one the nicest guys I ever met whilst supporting Inverness Caley Thistle. He was a laugh, a true Caley Thistle fan, a gent and was always in awe at my (our) long distance journeys that were made as a family to follow his (our) team. He was also a founder member of the infamous Highland March and also became the saviour of it too on that very first event. I shared the support bus with him on a number of occasions we're we talked football and rock music. From those halcyon days of the HM, the fun in the Innes Bar, the home matches and the away matches on the supporters bus I will never forget you Simon MacDonald ‘Bronson’ never. With a heavy heart I bid you farewell my friend and may you rest in peace now. My heart also goes out to all your family and friends. A pain unimaginable right now. I hope my words ease that awful pain somehow. Everyone on CTO will echo these thoughts and we all pass on our heartfelt condolences to Simon's family, friends and colleagues. Gone too soon, but will never be forgotten. Simon, you will never walk alone...... -
Can we? There's only a Scottish Cup quarter final to be played on Friday night in the Capital of Scotland and guess who will be there? That's right, the Pride of the Highlands, Inverness Caledonian Thistle. We will be at Easter Road in time for the 7:45 kick off. If you can't make it, then BBC Scotland is the channel to find for full live coverage of the game. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ TICKET INFO The club can confirm that tickets for tomorrow’s Scottish Cup Quarter Final against Hibernian at Easter Road will be available from Ticket Pods at the South Stand from 6pm. Payments can be taken by cash or card. No season ticket discounts apply to tickets bought on the night Any remaining collections will be available from the he South Stand Ticket Pods TICKET PRICES Adult: £22 Concessions (65+/Students/Under 18s/Child): £12. 2 years old and younger are free James Keatings ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ In the last round Hibernian knocked out runaway Championship leaders Dundee United 4-2 after a 2-2 draw at Tannadice. Inverness edged out Livingston in a close affair, Sean Welsh scoring the only goal of the game at the Caledonian Stadium with a superb free kick in stormy conditions. Interestingly, Hibs drew with Livingston last week and that should be a confidence boost for the Caley Jags. This is a big ask for Robbo's men after a couple of tough Championship games that saw us go down 2-1 at Tannadice last Friday and them we beat Dunfermline 2-1 at East End Park on Tuesday night. What was encouraging in both of these games was the performances and level of commitment shown. The same will be required against Hibs although this might be a game we will do well to contain a Hibs side who are always willing to go forward, especially at home. Having knocked The Arabs out at the same venue then they will be confident of quelling a Highland resurgence in a competition that we are no strangers to. Robbo was the scourge of the Hibees in days gone bye. He had bulged the Hibs net on no fewer than 27 times in Edinburgh derbies. I'm sure he will get a warm reception tonight from the Hibs faithful. Who put the ball in the Hibees net, Johnny Robertson...... Lewish Toshney is cup-tied and Sean Welsh is still out with an ankle injury. 27 year old Christian Doidge is the man to watch for Hibs. He has been in tremendous form with 17 goals so far this season, including the one last week against Livi. He's a handful at 6ft 2in and will need to be shackled if we want to get back to Hampden. Robbo pre-match.... And man of the moment, James Keatings............. -
8Steak Bridie time The pitfalls of a wee cup run and some bad weather will be upon us for the next few weeks. On Tuesday night we face Dunfermline Athletic at East End Park, the game kicking off a 7:45pm. That means it's steak bridie time! That will be followed by a Scottish Cup quarter final at Easter Road on Friday night. What a time to be alive! Dundee closed the gap to zero points on Saturday after they beat Queen of the South. We remain above them on goal difference only with Ayr and Arbroath a further one and two behind. Ayr United had their game at Arbroath abandoned at half time with the score level. The table looks like this with one other game tonight, Ayr v Morton. Dunfermline are just off the pace in sixth place and a win would put them right back in the mix. It's all getting rather congested in the race to be the best of the rest as The Arabs disappear into a mirage. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Match Information including ticket prices & Travel Club Info ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ We went down 2-1 at Tannadice in an entertaining game played in atrocious conditions. Jordan White scored inbetween counters from Louis Aperre and 28 goal Lawrence Shankland. We ran United close but Shankland was the difference on the night. Dunfermline's game on Saturday fell foul to the weather at Firhill. Here's Johnny..... Sean Welsh won't be attending this time as he is still broken. No reports of fresh injuries that I am aware of, so maybe a similar squad that played United or freshen it up with Lewis Toshney coming in to the back four. He is cup tied anyway so can't play at Easter Road. Dunfermline have had three weeks off prior to this game, their latest game falling foul of the wet weather last week. So they will be fresh as a daisy. Let's not forget, they have Danny Devine in their squad. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Don't forget the Quarter Final of the Scottish Cup is this Friday. Having beaten Livingston in the previous round, the Caley Jags travel to Easter Road to take on Hibernian, the game kicking off at 7:45pm. If you are unable to attend, then BBC Scotland will be screening the match live. Mon the Caley Jags -
Friday Night Footie We are on the telly again tonight. No it's not just the James Keatings diving show but we face runaway League leaders Dundee United at Tannadice tonight in a Championship game that kicks off at 7:05pm for the benefit of BBC Scotland TV. Been a hectic week or two with one thing or another so I'll keep this short. Inverness will be without Sean Welsh again who has a twisted ankle. Man of the moment James Keatings will be available for this one as his 'ban' will only come into effect for the same competition that the faceless imbeciles at the incompetent SFA decided that he dived. Nicky Clark is out for United but is hopeful of a return before the end of the season. United hold the upper hand over the Caley Jags this season and we will do well to hang on to their coat tails in this one. In our favour, the Arabs have faltered somewhat in the last few games since thumping Partick Thistle 1-4 on the 11th of January. They have since been knocked out of the Scottish Cup by Hibernian and had draws with Morton and Alloa and were beaten 1-0 by Arbroath. Mon the part-time teams. We had a morale boosting win over Livingston in the Scottish cup, but otherwise have let slip opportunities to narrow the gap at the top whilst the Arabs lost points. A defeat at Ayr, where incidentally Mr Aitken officiated, and a poor 1-1 draw with Alloa Athletic have also seen our Championship hopes stutter since an excellent away win at Dens Park after New Year. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Official match preview Includes ticket information The SPFL have confirmed that The Tunnock's Caramel Wafer Cup Final against Raith Rovers will take place on Saturday 28th March 2020 at McDiarmid Park, with kick-off at 4.10pm and the game being shown live on BBC Alba. We are all James Keatings also Our home fixture against Partick Thistle has been rearranged for Tuesday March 17th and will kick off at 7.45pm. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Here's a leaked video of James dressed as a giraffe rehearsing his dives Hopefully the recent poor weather will relent and the game will provide an entertaining spectacle for the throngs of onlookers checking to see the artistic dives and antics of the Caley Jags players. -
Chocolate Biscuit action Hold your horses, we play Rangers Colts in the Chocolate Biscuit Cup semi-final this Sunday at the Caledonian Stadium, Inverness. I bet you all forgot about this competition. Kick off for this one is 16:10 with the P&J Lounge within the stadium being open for a day of televised football, the drinks starting to flow at 12 midday. Ross County are the current holders of the Challenge Cup having beaten Connagh's Quay 3-1 in the final last season. The last round of the competition was played three months ago, I kid you not. So, back in November, we knocked out Clyde after a penalty shoot-out and Rangers u21's beat Wrexham 2-0. The other semi-final will be between Partick Thistle and Raith Rovers which will be played on the Friday night ahead of our game on the Sabbath. (Raith Rovers wait for the winners of this tie after they beat Partick Thistle 2-1. It was a frantic end to the game as Partick went two down with 15 minutes to go but they fell just short and hit the post as Raith hung on. They'll be dancing in the streets of Raith etc......) We have been in the final of this competition four times, winning the Challenge cup twice. To be honest it's an event that does not really come to life until the final stages for many fans. So here we are in the semi's against Ranger's finest youngsters and the opportunity to go further and gain some confidence as the league campaign gets to the business end. It's not for everyone, but our last final against Dumbarton showed what it meant to them and their fans as they lit up the day in Perth, their first final since the bronze age. Here's how we won the trophy two seasons ago......... Who are Rangers u21's/Colts. I imagine they are the finest hand picked youngsters who have been gathered from around the country and tied to Rangers on contracts that our players can only dream about. Add in a couple of seasoned professionals and there you have it. A team capable of challenging those outside the premiership in a trophy for the best of the rest. Rangers senior side won this competition in 2016. Rangers Team for the 2-0 win over Wrexham Wright; Patterson (Young-Coombes 31), Edmundson, Breen, Flanagan, Mayo, Barjonas, Maxwell, Dickson (Butterworth 87), Atakayi (Lyall 76), Kennedy. Subs not used: Budinaukas; Williamson, O'Connor, Miller. Goals: Jamie Barjonas (35), Nathan Young-Coombes (71) ***Inverness Team News*** John Robertson has fitness doubts over Aaron Doran and Lewis Toshney. Doran took a knock late in the home game against Alloa Athletic and Toshney, who had been cup-tied, has fluid on the knee which requires attention. Otherwise, it should be business as usual. Robbo insists that he has had The Rangers Colts watched a couple of times but admits it's difficult to know which players they will choose their squad from due to the nature of the competition. It could be a case of perm any XI from a possible thirty or so players. Good luck with that John. ***LATE NEWS*** The dates for the Scottish Cup game at Easter Road have been set and it's Friday night football for the Caley Jags. The game will also be televised live on BBC Scotland with a 7:45pm kick off ?Our @ScottishCup Quarter Final against @HibernianFC will take place on Friday 28th February at 19:45pm and will be shown live on @BBCScotland Ticket Information for Inverness fans will be announced over the weekend ? https://t.co/xPUhTigW3k -
A Blast from the past. It could be billed as an explosive cup tie as auld mates Livingston provide the opposition on Saturday as we meet in the 5th round of the Scottish Cup. BOOM BOOM! (Apparently the road opened with a bang after the device was detonated) Here's something to ponder over. On the day of this tie, 20 years ago to the day, Inverness Caledonian Thistle emerged from the ashes and this phrase was begat. SuperCaleygoballisticCelticareatrocious. Just let that sink in for a minute or two. This will be Livi's second trip to the Highlands in four days having played Ross County in a midweek premiership game. We made it thus far by beating Alloa Athletic 2-3 and Livi produced a late comeback to dispose of Raith Rovers 3-1 after Rovers led until the last 13 minutes. So, it's a wee while since we last hung out with Livi, having followed them through the leagues. We have had some memorable games against the Lions, and some instantly forgettable ones. Our last game against them was a 1-0 win for the Caley Jags in a Championship encounter in April 2018 when Liam Polworth (remember him), scored the only goal of the game in front of 740 fans at the Toni Macaroni. Ahhhh, those were the days...... Livingston went on to gain promotion via the play-offs that season by removing Partick Thistle from the premiership, winning home and away, while we just failed to make the top four after making a late run in the league, but falling at the third last hurdle when Dunfermline snatched a 95th minute equalising goal to deny us. Overall results against Livi are pretty even, the Caley Jags just shading it by a couple of wins and five goals. However, since we went down, Livi have been able to deal with life in the Premiership whilst we are struggling against the Arbroath's, Alloa's and Ayr's of this world. Livi sit comfortably in fifth place in the premiership and well clear of the dreaded drop, a top six place looks to be on the cards. It appears that Livi don't play quite as well when they are on the grass, their form away from the comfort of their own synthetic surface shows them to be vulnerable, something the village team at Dingwall exploited in midweek as a brace from Billy Mckay saw County take the points on Wednesday night. However, a word of warning, they are a strapping side and will pose problems to whoever our defence are. Dolly Menga, a substitute in midweek is a bag of tricks and will need to be shackled. Of the current squads there are a few players who have been on the books of both clubs. Our gaffer John Robertson was a player manager and present coach Barry Wilson played in Europe for them. Strikers Jordan White and Nikolay Todorov also donned both shirts. As well as departed players, the Caley Jags have injury concerns over the rest of the defence with Shaun Rooney, Kevin McHattie and Mark Ridgers all nursing knocks after the Alloa game last week. Lewis Toshney is cup-tied (is he even a real thing), although Cameron Harper has been recalled from Elgin City. According to the latest news, we have a clean bill of health after all the knocks last week, minus Toshney who is cup-tied. Here's Johnny..... Livingston went with an unchanged starting XI against Ross County in midweek, but added Dolly Menga to the bench in place of Alan Lithgow. XI: McCrorie; McMillan, Taylor-Sinclair, Brown, Guthrie, Bartley, Pittman, Sibbald, Lawless, Robinson, Dykes. Subs: Maley, Lamie, Lawson, Jacobs, Crawford, Souda, Menga. -
Ayr do Back to League business this weekend as Inverness make the journey to Somerset Park to take on Championship play-off contenders, Ayr United. The game kicks off at 3:00pm on Saturday at the same venue where Ross County were dumped out of the Scottish Cup last week. There's only four points separating the sides at the moment and this should be another tight affair. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Match and Travel Information can be found on the OFFICIAL SITE @ ICTFC We're in the money £££ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ It's been a rewarding fixture for us in recent seasons, including last season when we beat Ayr in the away leg of the play-off and both league fixtures at Somerset Park. We have already beaten Ayr away this season back in October when goals from James Vincent and Shaun Rooney were enough to earn the points. The second meeting this campaign was another 2-0 win in the Highlands, Jordan White and Miles Storey the scorers. Last time out we were on Cup duty and recorded a hard fought 2-3 win over Alloa Athletic at Recreation Park. We were pegged back twice after Aaron Doran opened the scoring. Jordan White put us ahead again only for Kevin O'Hara to get his second of the game. Charlie Trafford scored the vital winner with only a handful of minutes remaining. Ayr pulled off a minor upset by knocking our neighbours out of the Cup thanks to a powerful headed goal from seasoned professional Steven Bell. Form since we last met in the league Last time we met was back on the 7th of December, and after winning 2-0 in the Highlands we were five points ahead of Ayr. Since then we have won two (Pars & Dundee) and lost two (Partick & Arbroath), plus a win over Alloa in the Scottish Cup. Our game against Queen of the South fell foul of the weather. In December, Ayr had a midweek draw with Arbroath then beat Alloa before losing to Dundee United and Queen of the South. They started January with an away win at Dunfermline, a postponed fixture at Dens Park and beat Ross County in the Scottish Cup. So form is fairly even at the moment at that is mirrored in the League table with Ayr just one place and four points behind Inverness now. Fixtures this weekend Dunfermline v Dundee (Friday) Ayr United v Inverness Arbroath v Partick Thistle Dundee Utd v Morton Queen of Sth v Alloa Robbo said ahead of the game: “We’ve got to go down there and do what we’ve done at Dens Park and Alloa, that’s go down there and be very busy and very proactive with the ball and when we lose it make sure we’re nice and solid. The key to our success all season is our solidity at the back.” Whilst that is very true Robbo, you would wonder why the club can not hold on to the heart of the defence until the end of a possible promotion campaign. Is there enough ambition left at the Caledonian Stadium? Team News It was great to see Tom Walsh back on the park last week after hamstring problems and a further bonus to have Sean Welsh on the bench as he recovers from a second broken foot. These guys have been out for a while now and it will be like having two new signings when they are both back up to speed. Unfortunately the loss of Coll Donaldson is a blow and the impending departure of Jamie McCart adds to our misery. McCart is still here for now unless St Johnstone dig deep into their pockets. It remains to be seen if McCart will be asked to play for the club he wants away from. However, we have to go with what we have and Lewis Toshney will come into defence with Brad Mckay and Kevin McHattie also looking to claim a place. There will be plenty room for them all should Shaun Rooney turn his back on us as well. Mark Kerr has strengthened his squad by signing Grant Gillespie from Hamilton Accies. Jordan Houston has also joined from Rangers. Kerr will be without Craig Moore, Andy Geggan and Andy Murdoch, but Grant Gillespie will be added to the squad. Speaking on Ayr United's official site Kerr said : ”We don’t need reminding that we don’t have the greatest recent record against Inverness, it is just another game and another opportunity to pick up points and continue this wee run we are on. We know what Inverness are all about. They are extremely well organised, everyone knows their jobs and they play good football at times as well. It’s a challenge that we are looking forward to and we’ve been working had on a plan all week to get the best out of the players tomorrow afternoon. The last couple of games have proved that we are able to mix it up now and win games a different way.” Oops, sorry for the reminder Mark. We have some good news and some bad news for you this week First the good news. The club have reached their original investment target of £500K and have issued a statement to that effect. In fact they have exceeded expectations and you can read about it HERE The bad news is the break up of our defence with Coll Donaldson already away and Jamie McCart following him out the door in the summer if not sooner. As expected, after sitting on the bench at Alloa, Jamie McCart is next to go. He will be on his way to Perth in the summer unless we can sell him now for a few pennies. Sometimes life's a bitch! The final blow would be the departure of the much sought after Shaun Rooney who has been in tremendous form for the Caley Jags lately. Sadly Tommy Wright wants to tie up both players before the weekend. With the run in for a play-off place at stake, this is indeed not what the fans want to hear. Scottish Cup Draw Coll Donaldson is now confined to history after he left the building to join Ross County before last weeks Scottish Cup ties. However, unlike his former Inverness team mates, he won't be in the next round of the cup as Ayr sent them homewards, tae think again. Inverness will host Livingston in the next round, the weekend of February the 8th. Now then, that date rings a bell! -
Scottish Cup 4th round Since winning the Scottish Cup in May 2015, it has been all downhill for Inverness. Relegation from the Premiership followed in season 2016/2017 and we find ourselves now in our third season in the Championship watching Dundee United disappear into the distance with a play-off place our only hope of getting back into the promised land. However, it's time for a break as it's Scottish Cup weekend. Who is going to take the trophy away from Parkhead? ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Match info and Travel Club details can be found on ICTFC ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ For The Caley Jags it's a tricky trip to Clackmannanshire to face Alloa Athletic on the synthetic surface, a surface that fell foul of the weather last weekend as rain lashed the whole of Scotland with postponements curtailing the fixture lists. The cup game kicks off at 3:00pm at Recreation Park, or if the sponsors want to be heard, then it's the Indodrill Stadium. Robbo will have his work cut out to motivate the squad with all the transfer talk and that could have an effect on his squad for this game. Coll Donaldson has left the building already, others will follow as money talks. Look for Lewis Toshney coming in to the squad for the Championship games. Brad Mckay and Kevin McHattie already having some game time in central defence will surely replace Coll Donaldson this weekend with Toshney cuptied, having played for Falkirk already in the competition. At least we still have the top shut-out keeper in the Championship in Mark Ridgers. He likes to keep his sheets clean and has racked up 11 so far this season. That's better than Siegrist (Dundee United), MacGregor (Rangers) and Forster (Celtic). Mark has made 60 saves from 20 appearances. Incidentally, our opposition keeper this week, Jamie MacDonald has made the most saves so far with 78 from 16 games. Busy man, let's hope we keep him busy this weekend. Robbo has confirmed that Tom Walsh is available for selection after a prolonged hamstring injury and Sean Welsh is close to making a comeback after his second broken foot. Gringo's Gripe: Super Caley have a great cup pedigree but, as you point out, the squad could be side tracked by on going transfer talk and unsettled players. Dreams of a higher wage and a 'well-I'm-leaving-soon-anyway' attitude may take it's toll if we concede the first goal. On paper we should win this tie but if the paper is soggy we could slip up on the banana skins on the plastic pitch. Tommy Tremarco said pick that one out Jamie..... Scottish Cup 4th round Should be some entertaining ties coming up and at least one non league side will be in the draw with East Kilbride playing BSC Glasgow. BSC put East Fife out of the cup in the previous round with an excellent 3-4 win. Brora Rangers were the last Highland league side to go out of the competition this year after a 3-1 defeat to Morton in a replay at Dudgeon Park. The action kicks off on Friday night when Rangers entertain Stranraer and ends on Sunday evening when runaway Championship side Dundee United host Hibernian. Holders Celtic begin their defence of the trophy with an all Glasgow tie against championship strugglers Partick Thistle on Saturday evening. Alloa have only made the fifth round once in the last 13 seasons. Inverness have made it that far in nine of the last ten seasons. Here's the best goals from the previous round..... The January Sales. The sales are in full swing and the rumour mill is working overtime. Mitch Curry has already returned to Middlesbrough and Cameron Harper has gone to Elgin City. Coming back to Inverness on a pre-contract is striker Shane Sutherland unless we feel the need to get him in sooner. Shane left Inverness in 2013 to play at Borough Briggs having previously been on loan there. As it looks like we will need to re-assemble almost our entire defence, Robbo has made a shrewd signing in 27 year old defender Lewis Toshney who last played for Falkirk. Money does talk, and rumours of major departures from the Caley Jags seem to be surrounding our defence with Coll Donaldson already heading over the bridge with immediate effect. He has gone to Roy for an undisclosed fee, maybe he will show some interest now that his wages have increased, something we were unable to offer due to our financial plight. Maybe our paths will cross in the promotion play-offs, now that would be fun. Shaun Rooney and Jamie McCart are also attracting a lot of attention with St Johnstone, Dundee and Partick Thistle allegedly courting these players. The departures will open the door for Lewis Toshney, Brad Mckay and Kevin McHattie to stake their claim for a regular start. Well, there's nobody else in the way now.
