Dean Donaldson's superb double earned Keith a vital Highland League win against champions and current leaders Buckie Thistle, hoisting the Maroons into third place in the table.

Maroons manager Darren Still said: "It was a good victory and very pleasing to get another clean sheet but it's only three points, the same as the previous week at Brora.

"Our defensive performance was outstanding, standing up well for the last 20 minutes against Buckie pressure.  We're always a threat going forward, and it was a wonder goal from Dean to put us in front, it certainly needed a fantastic finish to beat Kevin Main."

Keith dictated early on and the visitors had goalkeeper Main to thank for pulling off several fine saves, notably twice denying Keith midfielder Wayne Mackay.

He was helpless though in the 40th minute when Donaldson cut inside from the left wing and unleashed an unstoppable 20 yarder high into the top corner of the net.

The game continued in the same vein after half time and just after the hour Mark Donaldson struck again when he scored from 10 yards for his 11th goal of the season.

Buckie goalkeeper Main pulled off another fine save to beat away a well struck Graham Lonie free kick, before Buckie showed their pedigree by hitting back for the last 20 minutes.

Buckie manager Gregg Carrol made no excuses, saying: "It was disappointing but Keith took their chances and that was the big difference.

"We were poor on the right side of the park and they punished us.  It was a screamer for their first goal but it is very disappointing when you don't defend properly.  Our attitude and commitment was great, we just didn't score."

Report from Press & Journal