Hamish Ritchie Q&A

December 20, 2021
3 min read

Hamish Ritchie discusses his time at Peterhead under Jim McInally and the season so far.

Midfielder Hamish Ritchie has played an important part for Jim McInally’s Peterhead side this season and discusses how he’s adjusted to playing regularly in Scottish League One. The 24-year-old joined the club initially on loan from Inverurie Locos before making his move permanent in the summer of this year.

Hamish discussed how competitive he believes Scottish League One is and how much he is enjoying his football under the current manager.

How are you enjoying working under Jim McInally?

I really enjoy working under the gaffer. He gave me a chance coming from the Highland League and has put a lot of trust in me. He always encourages us to play and be brave on the ball, which suits the way I play. He’s an experienced manager and is great to learn from.

How much have you enjoyed breaking into the first team over the last few seasons and establishing yourself as a regular since moving back from Inverurie Locos?

Yes, it is always difficult breaking into a first team, especially when you’re an unknown. The style of football is very different from what I was used to in the US. It took a bit of time to adapt too but I feel I took to it quite quickly. It was the first-time playing men’s football in 4/5 years so I’m happy to be playing regularly.

What are your personal expectations and the teams’ expectations for the remainder of the season?

As you can see from the results, the league is so competitive. Everyone beats everyone, which is why I think it’s important to take each game as it comes. If you put a good run of games together then you can move up the table quickly. Personally, I hope to add more goals, assists, and create as many chances as possible.

The playoffs are still in reach, do you believe this is still achievable?

Yes definitely, it only takes a few wins, and you can find yourself in amongst it. There is still a long way to go.

How tough a league do you find playing in League One?

League One is a tough league, there is no easy game and you must be on it every week to get something from the game. As I said, the games are so unpredictable which makes it interesting. I think there’s only four points between ninth and fifth which shows how tight it is.

Lastly, what do you want from your future footballing career?

I don’t like to look too far ahead to be honest. Since I’ve been away for the last four years or so I’m just enjoying being back playing competitive football.