Defensive frailties prove costly again for Staggies

It seems to be a case of two steps forward and one step back this season for Ross County.

The performances against St Mirren and Hibs in the last two league outings were encouraging but yesterday’s game against Dundee United once again highlighted the frailties County have in defence this year. For spells in the first half County were carved open at will by a Dundee United team full of youth and exuberance.

It looked as though manager Derek Adams had found a settled team, with the same 11 players starting the fourth match in a row, but yet again there must be serious questions asked, especially about the defence.

While County made it difficult for themselves, their task was made even harder by referee Brian Colvin.

County were denied two very good claims for penalties and the Dundee United fourth goal was clearly offside.

Coupled with the fact County hit the woodwork twice in the first half, the 3-0 half-time scoreline was harsh on County.

The Staggies played some good football at times, with Graham Carey being County’s best player, putting in several good crosses throughout the 60 minutes he played wide on the left before moving back to cover at left back for the last half hour.

Derek Adams now has to look forward to the match against Hearts and must ponder whether he sticks with the same team again or revert to a more tried and trusted defence.

After the success of last season, it has been a surprise that from all the defensive changes we’ve seen this season, Scott Boyd and Grant Munro have yet to feature as a partnership at any time.

Next week’s game is now a massive one for both teams, even this early in the season, here’s hoping not only the County players are up for it, but also the supporters.