Weakened Clach go down fighting against Ross County

FRESHER legs made the difference at Grant Street, Inverness, on Tuesday night as Highland League side Clach lost 2-0 to Irn Bru Division One opponents Ross County.

Lilywhites manager Iain Polworth had to draft in Adam MacLeod as a trialist to make up his squad of 16 players, while Ross County gave match time to several of their new signings, including former Caley Thistle skipper Grant Munro, midfielder Rocco Quinn and forward Colin McMenamin.

Without creating much in attack, Clach defended well under pressure, mainly from McMenamin, in the first half.

However, the opener came on 21 minutes when Munro powered a header past goalkeeper Stevie Dunn from a Quinn corner.

Chances were few and far between after the break, but doughty defending from Clach was keeping County at bay.

In fact, they should have made it 1-1 on 69 minutes, but sub Paul Bridle flashed his shot wide from eight yards as the Merkinchers finally got through the Staggies' backline.

However, County sealed the win on 80 minutes when sub Mark Corcoran cracked home a superb volley to beat sub goalkeeper Robbie Donaldson.

Clach’s preparations continue for the new term when Third Division side Elgin City come calling on Friday night.

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