Forres Mechanics 2 Wick Academy 2: Stuart Soane makes history

STUART Soane wrote himself into the Forres Mechanics history books on Wednesday night, becoming the fastest ever man to 100 Cans goals.

By scoring 100 goals in 202 matches, Soane has reached his ton eight matches quicker than fellow Cans striker Lee Fraser.

But it was an otherwise disappointing night at Mosset Park for Mechanics, who let a two goal lead slip to draw 2-2 with Wick Academy.

Speaking post-match Soane, who has played matches at centre- half and central midfield for Forres, said: "

I was quite surprised to hear I was the fastest. There has been Lee, Charlie Brown and a lot of other good strikers over the years who have played a lot of games.

"So for myself, who has not played consistently up front, to be fastest is quite surprising. But I’m sure if a certain Andy Macrae hangs about a little longer he might be pretty close to beating it. I’ll enjoy it while it lasts!"

Soane limped off with a tight calf on 75 minutes, with Forres 2-1 ahead, but hopes to be back on Saturday for the trip to face Formartine United.

Forres went ahead on 10 minutes. Robbie Duncanson’s cross from the far side was headed in from six yards by Aaron Hamilton for the defender’s third goal of the season.

Wick had big chances in the first half,with Jonah Martens slotting wide and being denied well by Stuart Knight, but Mechanics went into the break ahead.

The Cans doubled their advantage on the hour mark – and it was a big moment for Stuart Soane.

Aaron Hamilton’s lofted ball into the box was met by the forward and his looping header found the corner of the net for his 100th Mechanics goal.

But from that moment on it was all downhill. Wick halved the deficit on 71 minutes through Ross Allan after a scramble in the box from a corner, and they were level just five minutes after that from another corner. Gordon MacNab fired an effort in through bodies from 12 yards out.

Wick nearly went on to win the match. David Allan spurned a big chance when he headed over from eight yards, before Jack Halliday crashed an effort against the post.

The visitors furiously appealed for a penalty on 84 minutes, claiming Simon Allan had tripped his man in the box, but nothing was given.

Forres manager Charlie Rowley praised Soane for his achievements, although he was disappointed with the result on the night. He said: "It’s a hell of an achievement given that some of the games he has played at centre half and centre midfield.

"We are delighted for Stuart but it’s a pity we couldn’t get the three points to go with his accolade."