Dundee vs Ross County
Scottish Premiership
Saturday
17th February 2024
The Scot Foam Stadium at Dens Park
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the Scottish Premiership fixture between Dundee and Ross County.
Dundee vs Ross County: Preview
Dundee form analysis
Dundee’s recent results highlight a free-scoring team but one prone to defensive lapses. After crushing Livingston 4-1 away, Dundee conceded late to draw 1-1 away at Aberdeen, dropping points from a winning position. Exciting going forward but shaky at the back, that pattern continued as Dundee scored twice to lead Hearts but eventually lost 3-2 at home. A disappointing 2-0 defeat away at St Mirren followed as Dundee turned in a toothless attacking display.
However, Tony Docherty’s side showed their resilience by coming from behind to beat St Johnstone 2-1 in their latest match, with McCowan netting a late winner from the penalty spot. Overall, Dundee have shown they carry plenty of threat in attack with the likes of McCowan impressing. But Tony Docherty will be concerned by his side’s defensive vulnerabilities and inability to protect leads. If Dundee can add steel to their backline to complement their danger going forward, they have potential to climb to the top. But tightening up defensively will be key.
Ross County form analysis
Ross County’s recent form highlights a struggling team lacking drive and defensive resilience. After a narrow 1-0 defeat away to Celtic, County were held 2-2 at home by Livingston, twice throwing away a lead. Their defensive issues were exposed again as they lost 1-0 at home to St Johnstone, undone by a set piece goal. A heavy 5-0 thrashing away at Motherwell followed as County turned in a lifeless performance devoid of spirit.
Most recently, despite Murray equalising, County went down 3-1 away at Rangers, overpowered after conceding early and late goals. Overall, County have lacked energy and fight in recent games while defensive fragilities persist. Manager Don Cowie will be concerned by his team’s meek displays and inability to compete physically. If County are to haul themselves off the bottom, Don Cowie needs to instill more aggression and resilience into the side, particularly in defence. Greater determination and composure are required if County are to stage a survival fightback in the coming weeks.
