Match Report: Strathspey Thistle vs Formartine United – Scottish Highland Football League

Formartine United secured a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Strathspey Thistle at a chilly Grantown-on-Spey ground on 25 July 2026. The visitors struck early through a composed finish from midfielder Ryan Sewell, who latched onto a through ball inside the opening ten minutes. Strathspey responded well and equalised just before the half-hour mark when striker Calum Maclean rose highest to head home a corner from the left.

Second-Half Decider

The second half saw both sides create chances, but it was Formartine who regained the lead in the 68th minute. A swift counter-attack ended with substitute winger Jamie Dickson curling a low shot into the far corner from the edge of the box. Strathspey pushed for a late equaliser but were denied by the woodwork and a sharp save from Formartine keeper Scott Mathieson.

Key Moments

• 7' – Sewell opens the scoring with a clinical finish.
• 28' – Maclean heads home the equaliser from a set piece.
• 68' – Dickson strikes the winner on the break.
• 82' – Strathspey’s Ross Ingram hits the crossbar from 20 yards.

Match Impact

The result keeps Formartine United in strong early-season form in the Highland League, while Strathspey Thistle will look to tighten their defensive shape after conceding twice for the second match running. United manager John Sheran praised his side’s resilience, noting that the ability to grind out results on the road is essential in a competitive division.