Ross County interim manager out to make his mark in first game at Dingwall
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Don Cowie wants to see his own identity stamped all over Ross County’s first performance at Victoria Park under his charge.
The Staggies’ interim manager will send the team out at home for the first time since taking charge in the aftermath of Derek Adams’ resignation.
It will be a proud moment personally for the 40-year-old, who grew up locally with his namesake dad as Bobby Wilson’s assistant, and went on to play for his boyhood team.
But results matter most for Cowie and County, with opponents Livingston berthed just three points below the second bottom hosts.
The identity Cowie speaks of will be one of attacking football, packed with workrate, desire and commitment.
“I want to see a team out there who put on a performance that excites the fans,” he stressed.
“I want and need the fans to get right behind the players. It has been a very challenging period for this club. When this club does well, it’s when the fans and the players are united. That starts this week.
“I want the fans to see a team that is working hard for their club. I’ve seen that in the last two games.
“Against Rangers, we spent a lot of time without the ball, which is difficult and challenging. On Saturday against Dundee, I started to see the quality we have as well. Now I want to take that to the next level and do it here at home on Saturday.”
Cowie will prepare County for the toughest of tests.
“You know you have to be ready to play Livingston. You’re not going to get anything cheaply. You need to roll the sleeves up and work hard, and be ready for the battle and challenge that’s coming.
“That’s the message I’m drumming home to the players. It is about me making sure the players focus on putting on a good performance.”
Cowie is determined to make the job his own and added: “It will be a proud moment – and it’s one that I want to do time and time again.
“This is an opportunity I’ve worked very hard to get. Now it is about me trying to put my stamp on it and see if it can last a little bit longer.
“I’ve made no secret of the fact I would like to become a manager on a full-time basis.
“I’ve been a coach and assistant manager for three and a half years and the natural progression for me was to become a manager.
“I’m now in an interim post but I’d love to be here long-term.”
County will be without Jack Baldwin, Will Nightingale, Conor Randall, Scott Allardice, Ross Callachan and Dylan Smith.
