Ross County manager Jim McIntyre claims his players are under just as much pressure as Aberdeen’s ahead of today’s Scottish Cup last-16 tie between the sides at Victoria Park.
The Dons are second in the table, but such is Celtic’s lead the Scottish Cup, which Aberdeen last won in 1990, is the only chance of silverware this season.
County the League Cup last season and despite the expectations placed on Derek McInnes’ side, McIntyre says the prospect of more silverware means just as much to the Staggies.
McIntyre said: “There’s always pressure in football, especially at a big club. They’ll put themselves under pressure to expect to be there or thereabouts come the end of the competition.
“People might say there’s less pressure on us, but that’s not how we look at it.
“We’re at home and want to make sure we progress. If we get through we’re in the quarter-final and we’re only a couple of games away.
“Aberdeen will be desperate to get their hands on the Scottish Cup – it’s the best chance of success for all of us outwith the Old Firm. It’s a big game.
“They’ve been scoring goals and they’re solid at the back.
“They’ve got a potent front four who get most of their goals and they’re a threat from set plays.
“It’s up to us. We’re the home team and we’re a big threat from set plays too.
“We’ve been playing some good football and it’s important we carry that on.
“We have to embrace this match. The big games are the ones we want to play in.
“Aberdeen coming to town will bring a good crowd and the atmosphere will be excellent. They’re a good side, but if we can repeat the performances we’ve had against them in the last year at home, we’ve got a great chance.”
County won 2-1 with 10 men when the sides last met at Dingwall in December, with Ryan Dow scoring a late winner after Kenny van der Weg had been dismissed.
McIntyre is confident of another strong display from his side, and added: “It was a great response against them last time, especially losing the man and going on to get the winner.
“But it’s no surprise. We have players with strong character and we’re going to need them again.”