Highland League: Buckie Thistle win 12th title over Brechin City after dramatic final day

Buckie Thistle manager Graeme Stewart missed out the previous two seasons

Buckie Thistle claimed their first silverware in seven years as they snatched the Highland League on goal difference on a dramatic final day.

Buckie, holders Brechin City and Fraserburgh, who needed to win and hope both rivals lost, all kicked off with a chance to finish champions.

But Buckie's 1-0 win at home to Keith was enough to avoid final-day agony for a third season in succession.

Brechin's 2-1 win away to Brora Rangers meant they fell short by two goals.

Fraserburgh thrashed bottom side Strathspey Thistle 11-0 - a result that would have won them the title on goal difference had Buckie and Brechin both lost.

Buckie had won six games in 13 days to keep their hopes alive before securing their 12th Highland League title by the narrowest of margins thanks to Max Barry's eighth-minute curled shot.

It means Buckie will face Lowland League champions East Kilbride in the League 2 play-off semi-final.

East Kilbride won their title last weekend, finishing 12 points clear of Heart of Midlothian's B side.