Cove Rangers have one hand on the Highland League trophy after they edged title rivals Formartine United in a keenly-contested encounter at Harlaw Park, Inverurie, on Wednesday.
Daryl Nicol’s goal just after half-time settled a scrappy and fraught affair in Cove’s favour.
The result means John Sheran’s men are level with champions Brora Rangers at the top of the table but have played two games less than the champions, who have only one game remaining. As a result Cove need four points from the final three games, all away at Fort William, Clach and Turriff United, to clinch the title.
Cove manager John Sheran said: “It is in our hands but there is still a lot to do and we’re just focusing on the next game and trying to make sure we get the three points at Fort William.
“Clach and Turriff away is as tough a finish as we could have had and it is not finished yet. But this result has made sure the other teams have to win their games, so there is just as much pressure on them as there is on us.”
While Sheran is refusing to get carried away, United manager Kris Hunter believes Cove will go on and claim the title.
He said: “The league isn’t finished and we’ll try to win our remaining three games. Fort William, Clach and Turriff won’t lie down to Cove but I feel as if it was won here, although we’ll keep fighting.
“It’s hard to take but I can’t fault the players as they gave their all. Daryl Nicol was different class and showed why I believe he will pick up the Highland League player-of-the-year award this season.”
With so much at stake in this top-of-the-table encounter it was no surprise to see chances at a premium but United’s need was greater and Cove were content to reach the interval with the game goalless.
The home side’s mood improved within three minutes of the second half as Cove made the breakthrough.
Stuart Walker was the creator, sliding the ball through to Nicol, who turned his marker before slotting the ball past United goalkeeper Reid for his 42nd goal of the season.
United responded with a Scott Barbour drive and a Graeme Rodger header, both of which were saved by Cove goalkeeper Stuart McKenzie, while Nicol could have added to his tally only to be foiled by Reid but his goal was enough to give Cove victory.