Council congratulates Inverness Bravehearts

The Highland Council have warmly congratulated Inverness Caledonian Thistle on reaching their first major cup final with a thrilling penalty shoot out victory over Hearts in the semi final of the Scottish Communities League cup.

Leader Councillor Drew Hendry said: "I am always delighted when Inverness Caledonian Thistle or Ross County do well and this was a historic day for the Inverness club with a memorable and dramatic win.

"To reach a national final is a huge achievement and I am certain there will be a real economic spin off for the club and local businesses in the build up to the final."

The Leader will be writing to Neil Doncaster, Chief Executive of the SPFL, to see what the SPFL can do to encourage young people from the Inverness area to attend the final.

He said: "This is a great chance for our young people to witness a major sporting event involving their home city and we will be engaging with the SPFL to see what can be done to ensure this happens."

Convener Councillor Gray said: "This is a great achievement for a Highland side and delivered in the most exciting and dramatic way. It would be absolutely marvellous if the club could celebrate 20 years in the Scottish League by lifting the cup on 16 March.  They were real brave hearts and deserved to make the final with an heroic performance."

Provost of Inverness Councillor Alex Graham said: "This was a terrific match and a terrific result for Inverness Caley Thistle.  Winning was a just reward for the team's commitment and persistence in holding out with only 9 men against a very determined Hearts team. To reach the final of a national competition is a major achievement, and the whole of Inverness will be behind the team when they go to the final in Glasgow next month."