Robson is ready for next step after loss

BARRY ROBSON would never have imagined his final game in football would be a hammering at home for Aberdeen. But the midfielder was also clearly disappointed that he didn’t make more than three starts in what proved to be his final season in football. This was another desperate day for the Dons, as goals from Ross County’s Brian Graham, Alex Schalk, Liam Boyce and Martin Woods condemned them to the sixth loss in their last eight games. Marking his retirement with a standing ovation from fans, Robson said: ‘It’s been on my mind for a while. This year, I spent a bit of time on the bench when I felt like I could have played. ‘I just think it is right to go on to the next chapter of my life, which will still be in football.’ Dons boss Derek McInnes said: ‘Barry’s influence has been less over the past couple of seasons but he’s been a fantastic player.’ As for the dismal end to a season when they had hoped to challenge for the title, he said: ‘It is what the players have done up until now that I will remember. ‘It hasn’t ended the way we wanted but, hopefully, some of the young players will be better for this experience.’ Meanwhile, Jim McIntyre rounded on County fans who have given Woods stick during the season. McIntyre feels some fans have never given the player the credit he deserves. ‘Martin takes some stick from a small element of our support and I think he is underappreciated,’ said McIntyre. ‘He’s one of the first names on our teamsheet and I’m delighted to have him. ‘Some of our supporters need to get a grip, especially at home as some of the stick was unmerited.’ County’s performance was timely after just one top-flight win since lifting the League Cup in March. Schalk’s pace carried him beyond a couple of challenges only for Dons keeper Aaron Lennox to trip him as he cut across the penalty area. Graham lashed home the spot-kick before Schalk scored just before half-time. Boyce headed his 20th of the season in 67 minutes, before Woods completed the rout.