Thursday 1st June 2023
cinch Premiership
Ahead of the cinch Premiership play-off final, we look at some of the Staggies’ main players.
Manager: Malky Mackay
After enjoying a hugely successful first season in Dingwall, Malky Mackay has the challenge of guiding his side through this cinch Premiership play-off final this time around.
A hugely experienced boss, the Staggies leader can call on previous play-off and cup final memories when getting ready for this two-leg tie.
Ahead of Thursday’s first leg, Mackay expressed his pride in his group of players as they prepare to take on a Thistle side earning admiration from many for their play-off performances to date.
Having earned some big home victories against relegation rivals in the Premiership, don’t count the Highland men out just yet.
Defensive leader: Alex Iacovitti
A defensive warrior full of heart, this centre back has become a standard bearer for the Staggies over the past three seasons.
A threat from set plays and likely to pop up with an important goal or two, Iacovitti will be tasked with winning aerial battles against Brian Graham.
As part of a regular three-man defence with Jack Baldwin and Keith Watson, the 25-year-old will need to use all his experience to fend off a Partick Thistle side which has scored 16 play-off goals in just four matches.
Creative force: Yan Dhanda
Ross County’s number ten took a little time to adjust to his new environment but he has been one of the Staggies’ main creative outlets in the second half of the season.
A talented player on the ball and blessed with a wicked delivery from set plays, Dhanda has caught the eye of supporters and pundits alike for his skilful play.
Never afraid to have a strike from distance, he has found the net five times this term including two in the final two matches of the cinch Premiership season.
His eye for a pass will be needed amidst the tension of this end of season showdown.
Attacking threat: Alex Samuel
With Jordan White remaining a doubt after being forced off with a head knock against Kilmarnock, the attacking responsibilities may fall on Alex Samuel’s shoulders.
The Welshman’s return from a long-term injury came just when County had lost Eamonn Brophy and Samuel has been making up for lost time by forming a partnership with White in the season’s closing stages.
His single goal to date against Livingston meant the world to the 27-year-old after his injury troubles and he’d love nothing more than to help County maintain their cinch Premiership status.
His clever use of his body to hold the ball high in attacking areas helps to bring County’s midfielders into play and could be crucial in the first leg at Firhill.