TWO seven-goal blasts took Carlton to the AJG Parcels Forres and Nairn Welfare League title.
In a thrilling finish to the league season, the Forres outfit rose to the occasion in their final two matches to overhaul reigning champions Jacko’s right at the death.
After knocking fellow challengers Elgin Thistle out of the reckoning last Thursday, Carlton thumped FC Elgin on Tuesday to clinch the title at Pinefield.
Four teams were still in contention last week, with Carisbrooke leading the way ahead of Carlton, Jacko’s and Thistle.
Carlton’s thumping 7-2 win at Elgin Thistle whittled the group down to three, as Davie Raeburn’s five-goal haul did the main damage to Jags’ lingering hopes.
Neil Finlayson and Scott Jardine also netted for the Forres men, with Kieran Carty and Nick Willetts replying for Elgin.
Carisbrooke were then eliminated by Jacko’s 5-3 win at home to Thistle, for whom Willetts netted three to take his tally for the campaign to 34, two ahead of Raeburn.
But Carlton had one game still to play at FC Elgin last Tuesday, and they knew victory would take them above new leaders Jacko’s and dethrone the Nairn-based champions.
The result was never in any doubt as two more Raeburn strikes, combined with a brace from Kye Taylor and further counters by Finlayson, Cameron Grant and Jardine eased the Forres side to glory.
Stuart Campbell struck a consolation for Elgin.
Carlton were presented with their silverware after contesting the Taxi 24 7 McIntosh Rosebowl final against Uncle Bobs (Nairn) at Elgin City’s Borough Briggs ground on Friday.
See Friday's Northern Scot for a full round up of welfare cup final action from across the Moray area.
