Post-Match Reaction: Two Points Dropped By County
It was a case of two points dropped for Nairn at Lossiemouth as they failed to capitalise on taking an early lead and could not break down their hosts' stubborn resistance after being hauled level. It meant that Les Fridge's men had to settle for a share of the spoils.
It was the first game County had drawn since February and not one that was welcome as Nairn extended their run without a run to three games.
The visitors controlled the early stages of the game and took the lead after eight minutes when
Nairn continued to push forward after the break and took on a more direct approach. But clear cut chances were at a premium as the home side looked increasingly happy to see the game out in the knowledge that if they didn't concede, they would take a point.
Les Fridge spoke exclusively to Nairn County FC Online after the final whistle. He said: "I thought in the first half, we had a lot of possession and created a lot of chances. It was the same in the second half but we only had about two or three chances although we totally dominated. We were just lacking in the final third so we went to three up front but it was one of those days where things weren't dropping for us. They (Lossiemouth) made a few clearances off the line, there were goalmouth scrambles and our shots were hitting other boys."
The manager was unhappy with the penalty decision which brought Lossiemouth level and ultimately earned them a point. He said: "I haven't a clue what it was for and I can't legislate for these decisions. The kicker took the corner and knocked it straight out of play over the bar. There weren't any challenges, the ball wasn't even in the box but he (the referee) gave a penalty."
County's increasing desperation saw them abandon their passing style as they played the game the way Lossie wanted them to with long balls up the park. Fridge said: "We looked to get the ball from front to back more quickly as the game went on without mucking about with it at the back."
He added: "We started the game brightly. Goals change games and after we got our goal, they got the penalty which put them on the front foot. But as I say, I can't legislate for the decisions of the officials - I don't think anyone else saw what the penalty was for."
This result means County have now gone three games without a win. But that isn't causing any concerns for Fridge. "The Edinburgh City game was the Scottish Cup so obviously we're out of that," he explained. "It's no shame to go to Deveronvale and lose and today we weren't beaten but it was a case of two points dropped."
Nairn take on Fraserburgh at Bellslea Park next week as they play their fifth game away from Station Park in a row. Fridge said: "It will be another very, very difficult game. I am hoping to have boys back because I had six out today. We've gone from having a steady, settled squad when we were doing well to having a lot of boys missing for one reason or another. It does give boys a chance to stake a claim but it also upsets the rhythm."