Ferguson wants County to maintain winning run and seal last-16 spot

Ross County co-manager Steven Ferguson is looking for his side to finish the job in terms of qualification for the last 16 of the Betfred Cup by defeating visitors Forfar tonight.

Ferguson, pictured, said: “Sunday’s win at St Johnstone made it three wins from three. We have done all that we can so far to make it through the group campaign and if we beat Forfar then we will have completed the set. That is a nice target to aim for.”

The Dingwall men have added goalkeeper Jack Ruddy on a six-month deal following his release from Wolves and the 21-year-old could feature if international clearance comes through on time.

Forfar head north weakened by the absence of two players who have scored five of their seven goals so far. Manager Jim Weir said: “Michael Travis is attending a family funeral and Dale Hilson is suspended. It is disappointing as we are facing a good side and they’ve been big players for us.”

St Johnstone , who are closing in on the signing of Estonian defender Madis Vihmann and 2014 Scottish Cup hero Stevie May, look for their first Betfred points when Brechin come calling. Manager Tommy Wright said: “It’s been a frustrating few days as we should have beaten Ross County. We’re not scoring the goals that we should but hopefully that will change.” Brechin boss Barry Smith hopes to have French striker Emile Ngoy in his ranks if he gets international clearance following his move from Llanelli Town. Partick Thistle will clinch their place in the last 16 if they defeat Clyde at Firhill. Assistant boss Brian Kerr said: “If we’d been offered the chance to win the group at the start of the season we’d have taken it. ”

Airdrie boss Ian Murray wants his side to build on Sunday’s win over Clyde by seeing off Queen’s Park and making sure they are in front of Hamilton before they meet at the weekend. Murray said: “If we can win then we have a platform to get to eight or nine points and that may be enough to get through.”