Six goals help Carnoustie Panmure open up a six-point lead

The winners of the division are entitled to play-off for the opportunity to participate in next season’s Highland League but that remains an option, and not a requirement.

Regardless, lifting the championship in the league’s maiden season would be an achievement in itself and etch Phil McGuire’s side into history.

The six point advantage was opened up on Saturday as Blairgowrie were swatted aside at Davie Park.

Panmure hit six times without reply.

It may have take the Angus side a little time to hit their stride but, once they did, there was no holding them back.

They lost the services of Pat Martin with 21 minutes played due to an ankle injury before eventually getting their noses in front on the stroke of half-time through captain Ryan Roche.

The goal came at the right time for the visitors and they started the second period on the front foot.

Jamie Winter’s screamer from outside the box doubled their lead before Dale Reid’s finish put Panmure on east street.

Sub Ryan Dignan added number four on 74 minutes against a Blairgowrie side who were increasingly anxious for the full-time whistle to sound.

But there was still more time for Carnoustie to do more damage.

Connor Coupe’s free-kick made it 5-0 before Dignan completed the rout.

Although Panmure’s advantage now looks healthy, second placed East Craigie do still have two games in hand.

Games, of course, they still have to win.

This weekend Carnoustie will face a tough afternoon when they welcome Eddie Wolecki Black’s in-form Tayport to Laing Park.

Kick-off on Saturday is 2.30pm.

Tayport have been on a terrific run since former Airdrie manager Wolecki Black’s arrival and sit fourth in the league.

For ticket details, visit Panmures social media channels.