Inside take: Ross County hit rocky start but want to set record straight
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Ross County's short defence of the League Cup marked a poor start to the season for the Dingwall club. Paul Chalk, who covers County for the North Star, tells the Courier about what to expect from Jim McIntyre's side tomorrow.
Would it be fair to say it has been a bit of a rocky start for County?
PC: Definitely. Jim McIntyre would have been full of optimism by getting an opening win in the Betfred Cup with the team slowly but surely gelling.
It fell apart after that, with Alloa ending their chances of retaining thet rophy. The opening day loss against Dundee highlighted at times the weaknesses when they play with three at the back.
How has their recruitment been?
PC: Kenny van der Weg has looked good in flashes on the left hand side - he likes to whip balls into the box and could prove to be a useful addition.
I've not seen a lot of Chris Routis but he adds presence to the midfield, while Jay McEveley is probably the pick of the bunch.
He's settled in well at the back and has a good understanding with Paul Quinn and Andrew Davies.
Will Andrew Davies' situation have had any effect on the team at all?
PC: I don't think so. He seems focused, driven and determined that he's made his mind up to stay in Dingwall. That will lead to a more settled life for him in the Highlands.
He has taken the switch of captaincy to Quinn in his stride and will continue to be a fans' favourite.
Will they find it difficult to live up to last season?
PC: Definitely. I don't think they will be in any danger of relegation and having come in the top six last year, Jim McIntyre will hope to aim for similar heights with one or two new faces.
Trying to win a trophy on top of that may be asking a bit much.
How have they been to watch so far?
PC: They generally retain a lot of possession but don't seem like the quickest team.
That was exposed against Dundee who were rapid in attack, unlike County who seemed to take an extra touch or pass too many.
Who has stood out player-wise?
PC: Everyone has been impressed with Craig Curran coming back into the team, often from the bench. He has chipped in with a couple of goals and linked well with Alex Schalk.
Both him and Brian Graham have given McIntyre food for thought. Liam Boyce has gone off the boil a little, so it is good to see other strikers chipping in.
Surely, putting their recent derby record right is a high priority?
PC: One thing County will be aware of as Saturday's game approaches is that the away team tends to generally do better in derbies.
They will be relishing the chance to go across the bridge and make up for the 3-0 defeat on cup parade day, which is still fresh in the minds of the players.
