Keith back to league action after Cammy testimonial
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KEITH start their Highland League campaign tomorrow against Cammy Keith’s former employers Formartine United, a week after his testimonial versus boyhood favourites Aberdeen.
Keith, who is the club’s all-time top scorer, was rewarded for 10 years’ service with a testimonial against the side he grew up supporting.
And he scored in a 2-1 defeat as he marked the occasion (report P23).
Talking about his big day, he said: “It was really, really good. There was a big crowd, I had my family there and I managed to get a goal.
“It was a brilliant, enjoyable, day and it was nice to see so many familiar faces out to support me. The committee did an amazing job.”
Scoring goals almost comes naturally for Cammy Keith, but he admitted stepping up to take a penalty against Aberdeen was a nerve-wracking moment.
“I have taken some pressure penalties in my time and, even though this was a pre-season friendly, I was nervous,” he said.
“It was going to be my only chance to score as it was getting late so it was good to see it hit the net and to get a goal in my testimonial.”
The focus now switches from boyhood club to former club as Keith get back to Highland League action against Formartine tomorrow, and Cammy is under no illusions as to how difficult the opener will be.
He said: “Formartine will have title ambitions this year, particularly with Cove out of the league. It’s a very difficult start for us, but it being my old team up at Keith adds a bit of spice.
“We are at home and had a more respectable season last time out, signed a couple of guys and kept the nucleus of the squad so confidence is high in our camp.
“It’s one we will be looking to try to win to get off to a good start.”
After the Formartine tie, on paper at least, things look a little gentler for Keith as they face Clachnacuddin, Buckie, Fort William and Turriff.
Keith added: “We really need to get off to a flying start. August is a big month for us – we don’t want to be behind and have to play catch-up.
“Including the derby with Buckie at home, it’s imperative we get off to a good start and rack up as many wins in the opening month as possible.”
In terms of his objectives for the season – that’s simple: 30 goals, a top-half finish and a cup success.
Keith said: “Personally I’d like to get the same amount of goals as last year, which was 27. If I could get that it would take me on to 350 Highland League goals. Ideally I’d like to get 30, but at the very least 27.
“Team wise, we definitely should be pushing up into the top half. Top eight or top nine would be an improvement on last season.”
“And hopefully we can try to win a cup. There’s no point being scared to say it. Keith haven’t won a trophy for a few years now so it’s time we kicked on in one of these competitions and have a go at winning one.”
Tomorrow’s match with Formartine at Kynoch Park is a 3pm kick-off.
