Ross County have been criticized in recent seasons for their defensive record and number of goals conceded. But successive clean sheets in the goalless draws against Hibernian and St Mirren have highlighted the current confidence and strength of The Staggies’ backline.

It is the first time County have kept back-to-back clean sheets in the Premier League in almost a year. Don Cowie managed 15 Premier League games last season and did not see his side keep a clean sheet, while the clean sheet in Paisley was the fourth clean sheet in 12 Premier League games this season – only Celtic and Rangers have more.

The recruitment of Akil Wright and Kacper Lopata is a big reason for the newfound defensive stability. Wright has really impressed with his strength, pace and power on the right side of the county backline, while Lopata – who only joined Dingwall towards the end of the summer transfer window – has become the glue that holds the backline together with his aerial ability. and the defense of nonsense.

The back three of Wright, Lopata and Ryan Leak have shown they can cope with all kinds of opponents, from physical forwards to speedy wingers looking to stretch the game and run in behind. Even when a backline adjustment is needed as in Paisley when Leak missed the game through illness and was replaced by Eli Campbell, the back three defended their box brilliantly throughout the 90 minutes.

On the rare occasion that the defense has been breached, Ross Laidlaw has stepped up to make some big saves this season. His penalty save from Greg Kilties in the first half was impressive, but his save to stop Jonah Ayunga’s header in the second half was outstanding.

Based on his performances in recent seasons, what more does he have to do to earn a call-up from Scotland?

Ross Morren is on the County Corners podcast., external