Hearts visited Dingwall after adding three points to their European tally – they would emulate the same result in Dingwall, but it certainly wasn’t made easy for them by the Staggies.
In the Staggies recent outings, the style of football was questioned, and it certainly wasn’t fun to watch. Long balls and backward passing play seemed to be becoming the norm.
Despite losing to Hearts, the style of football was hugely improved from that against Kilmarnock.
The midfield were able to get a foot on the ball, allowing involvement for the wingers.
Long balls were lessened for shorter passes, and when the back line did have to go long Jordan White did a stellar job in holding up.
Starting ahead of the injured Ben Purrington, George Harmon added another peg into nailing down the left-back jersey.
His scampering, forward runs were incredibly effective as the young Englishman supported the County attack while being competent in his defensive duties against the rapidly quick Josh Ginnelly.
It’s an easy statement to make, but this time round, there genuinely were positive signs.
Lightning-quick start for the Ross County
Going 1-0 up and having a goal chopped off in the opening stages was a lightning-quick start for the Staggies – it’s just a pity Robbie Neilson’s side grew their way back into the tie.
It felt like Malky’s men created the most chances they have done in a game all season.
Yan Dhanda was imperative throughout as he always showed options for the ball when he was off it, alongside his sharp and nimble runs forward to set the Staggies on the front foot.
A loss seems harsh for the Staggies, who all in all probably deserved a share of the spoils.
The run of games leading to the World Cup break are far from easy, including trips to Easter Road and Celtic Park.
A win is crucial before the break, if not the Staggies will be left peering over the edge.
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