PREVIEW: Ross County v St Mirren – Derek Adams seeking goals reward as he praises attacking trio
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Derek Adams praised his attacking players for Saturday’s energetic endeavours against Kilmarnock – but warned they must start delivering goals.
The returning Ross County boss felt Yan Dhanda, Josh Sims and Simon Murray responded well to his instructions as they took the game to Kilmarnock in the scoreless draw.
However, for a team that has managed to score just three times at home in the Premiership so far this season, the need is obvious.
“Dhanda and Josh Sims did really well for us on Saturday, and Simon Murray as well up front,” Adams said.
“I thought they linked up play and created openings. All we need now is for them to contribute goals.
“It is all well and good having nice play, but we need assists and goals. That’s the only way you can get those three points.”
There was a solidity to County’s first performance since the sacking of Malky Mackay and the return of Adams after nine years managing in England.
That could stand them in good stead tonight, given how well third-top St Mirren have performed this season.
The home side tonight have beaten the Paisley men in their last two visits, though, and will be determined to set down a marker for the new era at the club.
Given the need to familiarise his players with his ideas, Adams was pleased the fixture again fell at home.
One focus in the last few days has been “doing the simple things better” to give the team that attacking platform.
“Staying off the road and not travelling can only help us,” he said. “I’m only new into the job and for the players as well, they can be at home for a few nights, sleeping in their own beds.
“St Mirren have started the season very well and put themselves in a very good position.
“Kilmarnock, as well, on Saturday – they’re in an excellent position in the league table.
“We assess St Mirren, see what their strengths and weaknesses are and then, similarly to Saturday, it is a case of can we get at them?
“Can we look at the weaknesses they’ve got, and exploit them? And also deal with their threats because they obviously have that.”
