Keith boss Craig Ewen “delighted” with his side’s performance in defeat to title winners Buckie Thistle
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
KEITH manager Craig Ewen was “delighted” with his side’s effort in Saturday’s 1-0 loss to title-winners Buckie Thistle at Victoria Park.
The Jags knew that any win would almost certainly see them crowned champions - and, in front of a packed and expectant crowd, took an eighth-minute lead through Max Barry.
But Keith - just as they did in a 1-0 loss against Buckie’s title rivals Brechin City on Wednesday - battled gamely and gave the Jags a few frights throughout what was a nervy 90 minutes for the home side.
MORE: Buckie Thistle boss ‘proud’ of ‘special team’ after title win
Title win is “massive” for the whole town, says club president
Ewen said: “We battled hard from the first whistle all the way until the end.
“It was a different atmosphere and a different setting, but I felt most of our boys embraced it quite well.
“It obviously wasn’t the game plan for us to concede an early goal, but after that we fought hard and tried to keep them at arm’s length.
“Second half we probably gave them a couple of scares, without really looking like we had the quality at the front end to score a goal.
“As the game went on, they were probably happier to keep their 1-0 and make sure they won the game.
“I think the best team always wins the league at the end of it, so congratulations to them.
“I’m delighted with our boys and the efforts they have put in.”
MORE: Pictures: Buckie Thistle celebrate title win
While the title is decided, Keith still have one game left to play this season. The Maroons host Wick Academy - who they are level on points with - on Saturday.
“We have Wick at home in the last game and we need to try to get three points and they will be the same,” Ewen added.
“It’s two teams in the same area of the table and both teams will be going for it, so I’m looking forward to the game.”
