Although the match official had decided that the gale force winds would make play impossible, he was eventually convinced to start the game, with a warning that, if after 20 minutes, he was still of the same opinion, then he would call a halt to proceedings.

Fortunately, the wind speeds decreased marginally, allowing the match to be completed.

A big well done to all concerned for allowing common sense to take over and ensure that a valuable Saturday was not wasted.

In the event Hermes took an early lead through CONNOR MCKENZIE and reached half time , despite facing the blustery wind, with a slender lead.

Half time: Nairn St Ninian 0-1 Hermes

Nairn quickly drew level with penalty by LEE HAINES but CALLUM INNES, with a wind assisted goal direct from a corner, soon restored Hermes lead.

The visitors should have put the game out of sight, as they created a raft of chances but good goalkeeping and squandered opportunities, meant that there were a nervous few minutes before the final whistle.

Full time: Nairn St Ninian 1-2 Hermes

Several candidates for Man of the Match today with Grant Campbell, playing his first game in several months, Connor McKenzie moving seamlessly out of defence into midfield and Michael Dawson, whose energy and non-stop running ensured that the Nairn defence could not relax for an instant, all genuine candidates.

However the nod goes to JAMES CAIRNS who is in the midst of a fine run of form and whose defensive and attacking work were both outstanding.