Spittal not so popular with Jags fans now
Former Firhill favourite Blair Spittal was unable to prevent his old side from creating a shock as Ross County crashed out of the Betfred Cup.
The midfielder, who headed to the Highlands in the summer, had an eventful afternoon on his return to Maryhill, scoring a stunning opener for the Staggies before being withdrawn minutes later with a minor knee injury.
Spittal was voted Thistle’s player- oftheyear last season but discovered he isn’t so popular with Jags fans now.
He was booed throughout the first half before responding by raising his finger to his lips as he scored – but the 23 yearold admitted it’s just part of the game.
He said: “I’m not disappointed with getting abuse, when I missed the chance they were dishing it out to me so when I scored it was an opportunity to celebrate.
“It’s just one of those things in football, I enjoyed my time here, but it was time to move on. You just have to deal with it. I gave it out so I’m big enough to take it.
“We didn’t start well in the first half but created a few chances. Thistle came out the traps in the second- half but we got the goal against the run of play. We were fairly solid and should have held on for the win and we are disappointed.”
Spittal’s goal looked to be the winner until Kenny Miller swept home an equaliser to take the game into extra-time.
Academy graduate James Penrice put Thistle ahead on 97 minutes with a lovely free kick from 25 yards out but County refused to give up as substitute Harry Paton levelled on 105 minutes.
With the game looking destined for penalties, Steven Saunders rose highest to head home Penrice’s corner and secure Thistle’s place in the quarter finals of the Betfred Cup.
Man- of- the- match Alex Jones was delighted to show Jags fans what he can offer, saying: “I was a little behind fitness- wise coming in later so it was important to get over 90 minutes today.
“First and foremost I want to score goals but you need chances to do that. I can hold the ball up, let the team get up the pitch and bring others into the game.
“I want to play well when I have the ball and put in a shift when we don’t have it.”