Malky Mackay confident that early-season evidence shows Ross County are capable of springing a surprise on Rangers in Scottish Premiership clash in Dingwall
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Malky Mackay, like any good detective, likes to base his theories on sound evidence – and sees enough to suggest Ross County can ask questions of Rangers tomorrow.
It doesn’t take a super-sleuth to recognise that both sides of the Old Firm are in a state of flux early in the new campaign, with the Ibrox club embarking on a summer of squad upheaval.
Clues as to Mackay’s thinking ahead of the televised, near sell-out visit of Michael Beale’s team might well lie in how County approached the league opener at Celtic Park.
Forensic analysis of how and why that honourable 4-2 defeat unfolded as it did has already been presented to his players in video form.
“I’ve always tried to show evidence,” Mackay said.
“It is all very well me saying things, but showing them holds more value.
“We did that after the Celtic game where they were able to expose areas against one of the best teams in the country.
“We’ve got to try to be greedy and be better, but by the same measure we scored twice down at Parkhead and played well. We need to hold onto that fact going into Saturday.”
County’s 4-3 extra-time victory over a much-improved Airdrie side last weekend proved further evidence as to where Mackay feels his side stands.
The Dingwall visitors looked comfortable until the Diamonds hit back with two late goals to take the game to extra-time. Eamonn Brophy’s 101st minute strike eventually sealed passage to a home quarter final against Aberdeen.
“A big positive was that calmness under pressure and finding a way to win, being resilient,” Mackay stressed.
“We’ve shown again we can score goals this season. Front and centre of us we have Rangers on Saturday and they did well against a very good PSV in midweek.
“They have the depth to change their team extensively if they wish. It’s going to be tough but we’re really looking forward to it.”
