NEWTONMORE face their most important test for years on Saturday when

they face Fort William in a match which could well decide whether or not

they will play in the national shinty league next season.

The Badenoch side desperately need maximum points from the match --

their last in the league -- to put pressure on Lovat and Skye, who could

still overtake them in the race for a top-four spot.

'More's form this season has been erratic, but Fort William come into

the game, which is also crucial to their championship aspirations,

having played only one match since the beginning of December.

In the south, leaders Oban Camanachd should comfortably dispose of

bottom-of-the-table Strachur to further strengthen their claim on the

title.