Buckie Thistle strike late to beat Deveronvale and close gap on Highland League leaders Brechin City while Forres Mechanics defeat Lossiemouth at the death
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Four festive Highland League fixtures on Friday night produced late drama, comebacks and a twist in the title race.
Buckie Thistle closed the gap on leaders Brechin City to a point with a tense 2-1 derby win at Deveronvale.
Brechin were held to a 4-4 draw in a thrilling match against Banks O'Dee, who led 3-0 at the break.
And Forres Mechanics struck late in the Moray derby clash at Mosset Park.
Vale and Buckie met for the third time in six weeks at Princess Royal Park, on league business for the first time.
A close tussle developed with Jags taking the lead ten minutes before the break, Andy Macaskill netting from the spot following a handball decision.
Their lead lasted barely five minutes, as a home corner ended up in the back of the Buckie net with keeper Bal Demus being credited with an own goal.
Time was running out for Jags in their pursuit of a winner when Marcus Goodall pounced inside the closing ten minutes to earn Jags three crucial points.
Forres Mechanics and Lossiemouth were heading for a goalless conclusion at Mosset Park when Cans' centre back Lee Fraser scored a stoppage time header to break Lossie hearts.
At Glebe Park, a Brechin side unbeaten in 26 league games since February were staring defeat in the face when they trailed 3-0 to Banks O' Dee.
Goals by Lachie Macleod, Lewis Crosbie and Michael Philipson had the Aberdeen side in full control at the break.
Brechin top scorer Grady McGrath then saw a penalty kick saved by veteran keeper Andy Shearer to add to the home challenge.
But the leaders stepped up a gear and levelled the scores in a devastating 17-minute spell, Botti Biabi, Fraser M
Back came Dee to regain the lead through Craig Macaskill on 73 minutes, only for Marc Scott to pull Brechin level five minutes later as it finished all square.
Another tight match at Pitmedden saw Fraserburgh edge out hosts Formartine United 1-0 thanks to Jamie Beagrie's first half effort.
Huntly's home clash with Keith, and the Inverurie Locos versus Turriff United match failed pitch inspections and were called off.
The final three Highland League matches are scheduled to take place on Tuesday night.
Nairn County v Clachnacuddin
Rothes v Strathspey Thistle
Wick Academy v Brora Rangers
