Adams' rallying call ahead of derby after defeat to Motherwell
ROSS County boss Derek Adams has warned his charges they’ll need to up their game ahead of next week’s local cup derby after losing out on the road at Motherwell on league duty.
The Fir Park side emerged victorious in an exciting, action-packed match which later prompted concerns from the County boss about the quality of defending.
Motherwell captain Keith Lasley sealed victory in the 3-2 victory after two memorable goals from Rocco Quinn – who held true to his pledge in this week’s Ross-shire Journal to feature more often on the score sheet.
Quinn's excellent long-range strike gave the visitors the lead on the17th minute.
Michael Higdon levelled with a fine header and then Nicky Law put the home side ahead with a calm finish shortly after the break.
A deflected Quinn drive then levelled the match but once again County lost out to a late goal as Lasley fired in the decisive goal for the hosts eight minutes from time.
The win was enough lift Motherwell – who have been struggling at home – into the top four. Ross County remain 10.
Once again, Inverness Caledonian Thistle will be going in to a clash with County – next Tuesday’s Scottish Cup replay in the Highland capital – on a high. The Inverness side sent Hibernian packing with a comprehensive 3-0 win, putting them back into second.
County boss Adams warned later his side would have to tighten up at the back after losing what he viewed as three poor goals.
Elsewhere in the SPL, Celtic defeated Kilmarnock, Hearts overcame Aberdeen and St Mirren played out a draw with St Johnstone.
Basement battlers Dundee host their great local rivals, Dundee United, on Sunday. Celtic are three clear at the top with a game in hand over Inverness.