Inverurie Loco Works won a remarkable Scottish Highland Football League encounter 5-4 away to Deveronvale at Princess Royal Park on 26 September 2026, as the visitors twice fought back from a losing position before claiming a dramatic late winner in a nine-goal thriller.

Match Overview

The match was a roller-coaster from the first whistle. Deveronvale took an early lead through striker Kieran Adams, but Inverurie responded quickly with a close-range finish from Callum Dingwall. The hosts restored their advantage before the break, only for the visitors to level again shortly after the interval. In a frantic final 20 minutes, the lead changed hands multiple times before Loco Works found the decisive goal in the 88th minute.

With both sides committed to attacking football, the midfield spaces were enormous, and the defences struggled to cope with the pace and directness of the opposing forwards. The result leaves Deveronvale frustrated after a strong attacking display, while Inverurie Loco Works celebrate a hugely important three points on the road.

Key Moments

• 7' – Kieran Adams fires Deveronvale into an early lead with a low drive from the edge of the box.
• 19' – Callum Dingwall equalises for Inverurie, turning in a cross from the right.
• 34' – Deveronvale retake the lead through a header from a corner.
• 52' – Inverurie level again as Dingwall grabs his second of the match.
• 68' – Deveronvale score a third to make it 3-2.
• 74' – Inverurie equalise almost immediately from a free-kick.
• 81' – Deveronvale edge ahead once more, 4-3.
• 85' – Inverurie respond again, making it 4-4.
• 88' – A late winner for Inverurie Loco Works seals the 5-4 victory.

Tactical Story

Deveronvale set up in a 4-4-2 and looked to get the ball forward quickly to their front two, often bypassing midfield. That approach worked for long spells, but it also left them exposed to counter-attacks. Inverurie Loco Works, meanwhile, used a flexible 4-2-3-1 that allowed their wide players to drift inside and overload the centre. The visitors' willingness to keep passing in tight areas eventually paid off, especially in the closing stages when Deveronvale's legs began to tire.

Both managers made attacking substitutions, which only added to the end-to-end nature of the contest. The winning goal came from a quick transition after a Deveronvale attack broke down, perfectly illustrating the game's tactical pattern.

Standout Players

Callum Dingwall was the hero for Inverurie Loco Works with two goals and an assist, constantly finding space between the lines. Deveronvale's Kieran Adams also impressed with a goal and a tireless performance, while midfielder Ryan Fraser dictated play for long periods. Inverurie goalkeeper Mark Simpson made two crucial saves late on to keep his side in the match before the winner.

Highland League Table Impact

This result gives Inverurie Loco Works a significant boost in the Scottish Highland Football League standings, moving them up the table and extending their unbeaten run. Deveronvale, despite the defeat, remain a dangerous attacking side and will look to bounce back in their next fixture. The nine-goal spectacle is already being talked about as a contender for the match of the season in the Highland League.