Ally Stark believes Rothes can still target the Highland League’s top three after signing a new contract at Mackessack Park.
Rothes are currently four points off third-placed Fraserburgh, who have a game in hand, however Inverurie Locos sit second with five points more and two games extra played.
Their quest for silverware moves into another competition tonight, with Ross Jack’s side taking on Keith in the Highland League Cup quarter-final tonight.
Stark, who penned a two-year extension alongside Fraser Robertson, Alan Pollock and Aidan Wilson, hopes the club can continue to threaten the top end of the table in the season’s run-in.
He said: “We’ve had a bad couple of results of late and were sniffing round top spot. Realistically, we’ve got a lot of hard games to still to play but I will be going into every game expecting to win.
“The top three or four is a realistic goal. We’re only a few points behind Inverurie but have a couple of games in hand and can go above them. It will be difficult to catch Brora now but you never know.”
The former Caley Thistle youngster was pleased to get his future sorted, with interest from other clubs in securing his services.
Stark added: “My girlfriend is actually a Rothes fan and she joked she would ditch me if I didn’t re-sign! We’ve got the makings of a good squad. We’re short in a couple of positions but I know the club are keen to add more quality.”
He hopes a new deal for Wilson, who was also let go by Inverness last summer, can use this new deal to showcase his abilities.
Stark said: “We’ve probably not seen the best of him. Whether it’s coming off the bench or starting, he’s got pace and frightens defenders. I wouldn’t like to defend against him.
“He’s got a lot more to show and I’m sure he’ll go from strength to strength.”
Keith manager Dean Donaldson, who is missing Ryan Spink for the game, hopes his side build on their impressive 2-1 win at Formartine United last week.
He said: “A result like that has got to give them a lift. Rothes beat us quite comfortably earlier in the season which I was disappointed with.
“For years, Keith have been lucky to win a cup tie, never mind getting to a semi-final. It would be great for us and shows we can compete against the top sides.”
