We caught up with Drew Howie ahead of this weekend’s match against Kingussie in the cottages.com MacTavish Cup Semi-Final…

Drew – you’re now just one game away from the cottages.com MacTavish Cup Final – how are you feeling ahead of the weekend?

Yeah, we’re in good shape at the moment, so looking forward to the game. I don’t think the fact it’s a semi final changes anything, every game against Kingussie is a big game for us. Hopefully we can put on our best shinty.

You played in 2014 the last time Lovat lifted the MacTavish, what was that like?

That feels along time ago now! That was a great day for Lovat, most things just clicked going forward and our guys just out played Glenurquhart on the day. We won 5-1.

Two unbeaten sides clash this weekend – something has to give – what do you think will be the difference maker?

It’ll be fine margins I’m sure, I’m not sure who or what could be difference maker, our goals have been coming from all over the park which is great to see! Defensively we need to be prepared to work hard and not allow Kingussie time on the ball.

The last time you played Kingussie you knocked them out of the Tulloch Homes Camanachd Cup (2021) – do you think they will be out for revenge after that?

That was a bit of an upset for many, they were definitely the form team at that point in time. Once the game starts I don’t think it’ll be in the forefront of many players minds though. The Kings are always very professional and well prepared, they will have moved on and improved since then.

You’ve conceded 2 goals in 5 games including clean sheets against Kyles, Oban Camanachd and Kinlochshiel, do you feel the defence is in a strong place at the moment? What do you put that down to?

I think to be defensively sound is a real team effort, covering and tracking back from our midfield has been great. I feel the back 5 have worked well as a unit too, but Saturday will be a test on the next level!