Murray: it’s my first goal – gaffer can count on me

SIMON MURRAY’S first Ross County goal counted for nothing.

But the striker hopes it’s a sign he can play a big role in the club’s survival bid.

Murray came off the bench early in the second half and, with the inadvertent help of Cristian Montano, bundled in a reply for the Staggies in the 69th minute.

Despite having four strikers on the pitch for the final 12 minutes, Malky Mackay’s daring changes couldn’t conjure an equaliser.

Murray, who has made four sub outings and just one start since joining from Queen’s Park, hopes for more chances to make an impact.

Asked if the goal could kick-start his County career, the 31-year-old said: “Definitely, I’m training hard and when I get my opportunity, I try to help the team as much as I can.

“Jordan (White) and (Eamonn) Brophy have been playing and doing really well, getting goals and we got a couple of good results.

“You need to wait your time but I’ve been in this situation before. You just need to make sure you are ready. When that chance comes, the goal is good.

“But you want to try to make an impression on the team and work hard for the team when you come on.

“And sometimes you get a little reward for that work by getting a goal.

“I’ve never lost the hunger to play and try to score goals and run to help my team-mates. That won’t change. Every player wants to play, there are others who are like me too and hopefully I’ll get more opportunities.”

County dropped into the play-off place after Kilmarnock jumped into 10th and Dundee United closed to within two points.

Murray added: “The international break is a chance to get together and work as hard as we can over the next couple of weeks to get things right.”