Different dynamic post-split as familiarity levels keep rising at Ross County
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The end-of-season split is a whole new experience for Jordan Tillson.
Despite signing for Ross County last January, this is the first time he has played since the top and bottom six in the Premiership separated from each other after the last season was brought to an early end.
Pressure gets ramped up at this time of the campaign, with every point crucial in achieving ambitions – which in County’s case is to stay in the top flight for another season.
Tillson only ever played opponents twice a season in the league in England, so the familiarity that comes from having already played teams three times makes upcoming matches slightly different, but he insists all the Staggies can do is focus on themselves.
“Everyone knows the styles of teams now,” he said.
“It’s different because teams are fighting against relegation now, it’s about who comes out the strongest.
“We just need to beat what’s put in front of us and look at each game individually.
“There’s not a lot we can do about teams around us – we just focus on ourselves to make sure we’re ready for the game.”
Last weekend’s draw away at Kilmarnock was notable in the changes that were made to the County side.
Early in the season the Staggies fielded some of the youngest sides in the league.
However, last Saturday the likes of Carl Tremarco and goalscorer Michael Gardyne returned to the starting 11.
As far as 28-year-old Tillson is concerned, the more experienced heads have an important role to play in guiding their younger teammates over the crucial coming weeks.
“The playing squad is so good here,” former Exeter City midfielder Tillson explained.
“The experienced lads have been brilliant with the young lads, constantly speaking to them and helping them out in any way they can.
“I’m sure a lot of the younger guys will tell you how good the older pros have been with them.”
It has been a generally strange year for everyone in the pandemic, but Tillson has still enjoyed his time in Dingwall, adding: “It’s been difficult not seeing people, but I thoroughly love the club and the area. I’m really happy here.”
