Ross County 0
Kilmarnock 0
League (SPL)

Match Report

Source unknown.

County Boss Derek Adams watched his side extend their unbeaten league run to 39 matches, following a hard fought goalless encounter with Kilmarnock.

The Staggies may not have been consciously thinking about the amazing record they have created, but they have taken to the Scottish Premier League in sensational fashion, and in doing so have added to the plaudits already heaped on them. In recognition of the clubs exploits Manager Derek Adams was named Clydesdale Bank Manager of the Month for August.

Even at this early stage in the season it is evident that County are going to be a difficult side to take points from. They are assured, but not overly confident, they defend well, pass the ball with assuredness and precision and counter attack with great pace.

The latest team to come North, Kilmarnock had come of the back of a resounding 3-1 victory over Dundee United, so confidence was high going into the match at Victoria Park.

Ross County however, had other ideas, and it was noticeable from the start that the home side were in no mood to give up their unbeaten run as they chased and harried, and made Killie work for each and every touch of the ball and overall thoroughly frustrated the Rugby Park side. The home side created the better chances in the match, while the visitors sat in particularly during the second period, as County went in search of their opening league victory at home.

Building from defence seems to be the way Manager Adams wants his team to play with few complaining following another excellent performance from the home side’s back four. Four clean sheets from their opening five SPL league matches is testimony to how well they are playing, and more importantly to how well they have adjusted to life in the top tier.

Special praise must also go to youngster Alex Cooper, who came into the midfield to make his debut and performed very well until injury saw him replaced late on. The best chance in the first period came to the home side, when Rocco Quinn flighted in a cross that looked to be covered by keeper Kyle Letheren, but he failed to gather the cross cleanly, allowing Marc Fitzpatrick to head unchallenged, and only a despairing clearance from James Fowler on the goal-line denied the home side an interval lead.

The second period saw the visitors failing to deal with cross balls into the penalty area, as County continued to look for the vital breakthrough.
The best opportunity of the second period saw Rory McKenzie burst into the box, but his final effort was well blocked by home keeper Michael Fraser to maintain his side’s unbeaten start to the season.