JIMMY Calderwood's quest to revitalise the Staggies is showing signs of promise - but the Dingwall men just couldn't crack a sturdy Partick Thistle.

 

The best chance of a County-dominated game saw striker Garry Wood blocked almost on the line.

 

Partick forced two early corners, with David Rowson's attempt after three minutes hacked off the line by County's Johnny Flynn.

 

As the game progressed the hosts grew in confidence, with much of their threat coming through left back Scott Morrison.

 

After 27 minutes, Morrison's cross caused havoc with keeper Scott Fox colliding with his defender Willie Kinniburgh before danger was cleared.

 

Moments later, a Garry Wood header was tipped onto the base of the post by Fox as County momentum built.

 

A slick move after 31 minutes almost cracked Thistle's defences when Morrison and Wood linked before Stevie Milne fired over from 20 yards.

Partick went close on half-time when Iain Flannigan broke free on the right to sweep a shot inches wide of the far post.

 

After the break it was County that again started the brightest, Scott Fox pulling off a good double save after 54 minutes parrying a Kettlewell strike after great County work to the left of the box. Wood slid in on the rebound a couple of yards out but the ex-Celtic shotstopper was brave at his feet.

 

County continued to dominate the game, enjoying good possession whilst limiting the Jags to just a couple of long range efforts. Substitute Barrowman came close to winning it at the end; his shot across goal going agonisingly close.

  

Ross County - McGovern, Miller, Boyd, Flynn, Morrison, Brittain, Kettlewell, Lawson  (Marr 82), Di Giacomo (Corcoran 63); Wood (Barrowman 80), Milne 7.

Subs: Malin, Gardyne.

 

Partick Thistle - Fox, Paton, Robertson, Kinniburgh (Erskine 30), Archibald, Rowson, McNamara (Cairney 61), Flannigan, Hodge, Doolan, Donnelly (Grehan 72).

Subs: Shepherd, McGowan.

  

Referee: John McKendrick

Attendance: 2316