CLACH boss Iain Polworth expects a strong response from Fort William when the sides meet at Claggan Park tomorrow night (Friday).

Last week at Grant Street, Inverness, a makeshift Fort side crashed 6-0 against the Merkinchers, with a hat-trick from Sam Urquhart and goals from Chris Ross, Scott Graham and Paul Graham completing the rout.

Although satisfied to win with such ease, Polworth is sure their hosts will be a different proposition second time around.

He said: "I was delighted with the result on Friday, although Fort William had a number of players out. In fact, it was probably the youngest side I have seen visit Grant Street.

"However, we had to take advantage of that. While it was great to score six goals, I was also delighted to have kept a clean sheet. I think that takes us to a positive goals for column (plus one) for the first time in a while, so that was another pleasing aspect.

"I know Danny Conlon (Fort boss) and Michael McEachen (assistant manager) well and they'll be much changed with the Ellis brothers, Sean and Michael, back as well as Stewart Gray between the sticks. "I am sure that Fort will be keen to hit back - they won't take last week's result lying down."

Clach hope to have Colin Williamson and Gordon Morrison back in the squad for the trip down the A82.

Clach lifted the Simon Shields Memorial Trophy after their 6-0 victory. Shields, who played for the Lilywhites and Fort William, died with cancer in June. Each festive derby between these clubs in Inverness will see the teams play for the silverware as well as league points.

Polworth added: "It was a real tragedy and it was nice that Simon's parents could come along on the night.

"I think scoring six goals was a real fitting tribute to him."