Ross County manager Jim McIntyre has paid tribute to attacker Liam Boyce’s contribution to the suge towards Premiership safety.
Boyce’s ninth goal of the season earned County a 1-1 draw at Motherwell on Saturday, a crucial result which kept the Dingwall side six points ahead of the Steelmen with just three games to play.
County can rule out the prospect of finishing in the relegation play-off position with a win against St Mirren on Saturday, if Motherwell fail to beat Kilmarnock on Friday night.
Boyce has signed a two-year contract extension with the Dingwall club, and McIntyre reckons the Northern Irishman has played an instrumental role in taking the Staggies to within touching distance of securing their Premiership status.
McIntyre said: “Liam knows where the goals are – that’s something that comes naturally to him. But he is also a good footballer and has a great touch.
“There were a couple of touches he took against Motherwell on Saturday that just took the defender right out of the game. He’s a clever player.
“I’m delighted he’s managed to keep his run going. He’s scoring goals and is a pivotal part of our team.”
Boyce was joined by fellow attackers Craig Curran and Kyle Macleod in extending his stay until 2017.
Curran has netted five times in 16 appearances since joining from Nuneaton Town in January, while 19-year-old Macleod has yet to make his first team debut for County, but is highly regarded by manager McIntyre.
The Staggies manager is pleased to have secured the trio and hopes this weekend’s results will confirm his side can plan for top-flight football next season.
McIntyre added: “I’m delighted Liam and Craig have signed new deals. Since the two of them have been partnered together they’ve done extremely well. They’ve got better and better as a pairing.
“We’ve also tied up young Kyle as well, who’s one for the future. It was a good week for the club with players showing their commitment to us. They know what we’re trying to do. Hopefully we can get the job done on Saturday.”