Selection issues arising for Inverness Caledonian Thistle Women
Inverness Caledonian Thistle Women’s manager Karen Mason believes availability issues are not helping her team’s fortunes in the SWF Championship.
Six matches in, the Caley Jags only have six points to their name after an opening day win against Rossvale and a victory away at old north-section rivals Dryburgh Athletic.
Four other defeats have hit hard, though, with games being decided by just a single goal.
When matches are so close, every little bit extra can make the difference, but Mason has seen a glut of knocks in her side lead to fitness issues – and players having to soldier on through injuries.
“It has been an issue,” she admitted.
“Two weeks ago we were away with 12 players, and last weekend we had just three on the bench.
“We struggled with injuries on the pitch, and didn’t have many options to change things. In that sense, we’re struggling for options on a match day.
“In training as well there have been a lot of injuries that have blighted us a little bit. That’s all not very helpful at the moment I have to say.”
With Sunday’s trip to Ayr quickly coming into view, though, there are positives that Mason can take from her team’s last performance.
Teenager Iona MacArthur scored on just her second start for the senior team, and Fin Annand returned to the fold after a spell away from the pitch.
“Iona started two weeks ago as well and did really well, but it was her first start at home and she scored,” Mason added.
“She was brilliant again for us, she had the fight and energy that we want the whole team to show.
“I had asked Fin to try and get us through 45 minutes, but the way things went she had to fight through. She’s that kind of player that will dig in and give absolutely everything.
“I was pleased to get 90 minutes out of her, and hopefully she won’t be any worse for wear after that.”