A CLINICAL Clach proved too strong for Buckie Ladies on Sunday in windy conditions at Merson Park. It was Buckie’s first home game of the season and despite missing some key players – including the slayer of Nairn, six-goal heroine Steph Greenless – the hosts took the game to the Invernessians in the first half. Buckie suffered an early blow when key player Hailey Thain hobbled off after just five minutes with what is believed to be ligament damage. A defensive error saw the visitors pounce to register a half time lead. With the wind at their backs after the break. Clach’s experienced team went on to establish a three-goal lead, a late penalty completing a 4-0 victory. Buckie Ladies manager Mel Smith had been expecting a difficult tie against Clach and while disappointed to lose was nevertheless full of praise for her squad, who attacked to the final whistle. “I knew we would have a tough task on our hands against Clach but we matched them in the first half,” she told the Advertiser. “We had four good chances in the half and if we’d taken some of them it would’ve been a different game. “In fact I was disappointed to be 1-0 down at half time, based on our performance. “Clach had the wind at their backs in the second half and took full advantage of it. “It was a really frustrating game from our point of view. The scoreline didn’t reflect the balance of play over the full 90 minutes. “It’s encouraging to see the progress the players are making – the way they’re keeping their shape and the standard of their fitness.” Smith picked out defensive pairing Sara Christie and Ellie Smith as her star players of the match. Smith added: “Sara gave away the first goal but showed character to recover well and lead the back line. “Her and Ellie were rocks at the back.” Buckie Ladies were sponsored by Gladiator Fit for the match against Clach, with the firm’s boss Kathryn Evans there to cheer on the team. Next up is a trip to Brora on Sunday in the League Cup. Check the Buckie Ladies Facebook page for kick-off time updates.