Match Preview - Dundee (A)

Written by Peter Mackay

Ross County are making the trip to Dens Park on Tuesday for the rearranged match, ready to take on Dundee following their return to the Premiership. It’s a 7:45PM kick-off in the city of discovery in what is set to be an entertaining clash.

Dundee

After what was a highly successful Championship-winning campaign last season, Dundee have taken the rise to the Premiership in their stride so far this season.

The Dark Blues have seamlessly transitioned to the top-flight under new manager Tony Docherty. They currently sit in tenth place with seven points to their name – the same tally as amassed by the Staggies. They have also been out of action throughout October due to international breaks and match postponements.

The Dee have picked up one victory this campaign in an impressive 1-0 win over Heart of Midlothian. Docherty’s side have also earned a further four points from draws, in all of which Dundee have shown plenty of strengths. They have shown intelligence in front of goal, scoring seven goals in the Premiership this season. There are also positives at the other end of the park as the Tayside club have two clean sheets to their name this campaign.

Player to Watch – Luke McCowan

Some Staggies supporters will remember McCowan all too well from Dundee’s last stint in the topflight. The tricky winger netted twice against Ross County in December 2021, as well as causing the defence problems in the other fixtures between the sides during that campaign.

The former Ayr United man has probably had a slower start to the season than he would have hoped for, however with a goal and an assist to his name so far this season, you can see why new gaffer Tony Docherty has made him a regular pick. McCowan does have the quality that can unpick defensive lines, so for that reason will be one to keep an eye on.

Ross County

Malky Mackay’s Staggies have had a mixed bag of results throughout the season so far, with recent form slightly dampening the League standings.

Ross County have picked up wins over Kilmarnock and St Johnstone, as well as performing very well in a draw with Livingston.

Malky’s new additions have settled in well, and despite some recent poor form this group of players have countlessly shown an ability to bounce back – and that is exactly what this trip to Dens Park could provide. This tie is an opportunity to show the ability within the newly formed squad.

Three points in Dundee could see the Staggies shoot up the table to as high as fifth, depending on results elsewhere in the League.

Player to watch – Alex Samuel

In a narrow loss to Heart of Midlothian, Alex Samuel made his first league start of the season. He put out a good showing, displaying his hardworking and tenacious qualities which make him such a popular figure amongst Ross County fans.

Samuel has constantly been a handful to deal with for opposition defenders, and no matter which role he plays, be it from the off or coming on to make an impact – there is no doubt that the Welshman will cause problems for the Dark Blues defence. Alex also netted 3 in our recent North of Scotland cup Semi-Final win over Brora Rangers.

Previous Encounters

The Staggies had a 100%-win record over Dundee in the 21/22 campaign with two away victories at Dens Park and a 3-2 home win. Regan Charles-Cook and Dominic Samuel scored to secure the victory for the Staggies that day after a Danny Mullen own goal put them on the back foot.

In the fixtures away from home there were goals galore for Malky Mackay’s side. County scored seven goals in the two meetings, most notably that memorable 5-0 win which included an unforgettable Joe Hungbo free kick.

The Staggies have a strong record against Dundee overall, with 19 wins out of 48 total encounters.

Familiar Faces

There have been numerous players to pull on both the Staggie blue and the Dark blue over the years, and with Jim McIntyre's managerial connections, there have been many in recent times.

Former County skipper Andrew Davies signed for the Dee under cup-winning manager McIntyre, whilst Martin Woods and Craig Curran also made the same move.

Sean Higgins and Colin McMenamin are some other fan favourites to have played for both clubs, as well as first-division-winning Scottish Cup hero Steven Craig.

Team News

Ross Callachan and Ben Paton remain the long-term absentees for the Staggies, Josh Reid is also likely to remain out for this one. Josh Sims is edging towards a recovery but this one may come too soon for him.

Ticket Information

There will also be a cash gate in operation on the day at Dens Park.