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Pinpoint accuracy sees off Falkirk


By Andrew Henderson

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Ross County 2 (Graham, Watson)

Falkirk 1 (McShane)

Keith Watson scored Ross County's second goal before half time. Picture: Mike Schofield.
Keith Watson scored Ross County's second goal before half time. Picture: Mike Schofield.

Ross County eased 11 points clear in the Championship title race by winning their game in hand against Falkirk.

The Bairns travelled to Dingwall having not lost in 2019, but some pinpoint crossing from Josh Mullin put an end to that run.

It was a slow start from both teams, with the Staggies looking comfortable at the back but being put under pressure deep into their own half when in possession.

But County took the lead after 13 minutes.

Mullin received the ball from a quick throw in and immediately looked up to see who was attacking.

He put in an early cross to find Brian Graham, who converted into the near post.

Falkirk had a chance to hit right back though, when Ross Maclean broke County's offside trap.

He had all the time in the world to pick his spot, but he ended up shooting right down Scott Fox's throat - though the keeper did well to hold on to the ball.

Brian Graham opened the scoring with a towering header. Picture: Ken Macpherson.
Brian Graham opened the scoring with a towering header. Picture: Ken Macpherson.

The Staggies would double their advantage in similar circumstances to the opener.

A corner was not properly cleared and was given back out to Mullin on the right wing, who picked out Keith Watson in the middle to guide the ball into the far corner.

Falkirk tried to put some pressure on towards the end of the first half, but though Deimantas Petravicius looked lively the end product in front of goal was not there to trouble Fox.

That would continue after the interval, but again clear cut chances were few and far between.

A succession of set-pieces saw Falkirk camped around the County penalty area, but they were not able to find a breakthrough for a long period.

As the game entered its final 15 minutes frustration started to boil over for the visitors and they picked up several yellow cards.

But there was late drama when Grivosti fouled Zak Rudden inside the County box with five minutes to go.

Referee Steven Kirkland showed the young defender a second yellow card for his troubles, before Ian McShane sent Scott Fox the wrong way to score from the spot.

The Staggies then defended for their lives as Falkirk pushed for an equaliser, but they managed to hold on to extend their lead at the top of the table.


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