Jim McIntyre tips cap to hat-trick hero Liam Boyce

Liam Boyce came in for special praise from Ross County manager Jim McIntyre after his hat-trick decided the Highland derby.

The Northern Ireland international had not found the back of the net prior to the meeting with Inverness, but three well-taken goals emphatically silenced any doubters.

Boyce has watched on while fellow strikers Alex Schalk, Brian Graham and Craig Curran all found the back of the net during the disappointing League Cup campaign, while last season's top scorer endured a frustrating start to the new campaign.

However, he rediscovered his scoring touch at the perfect time, bullying the Caley Jags' defence and taking home the match ball.

It was a fantastic move for the second goal and the way he plucks it out of the sky and sticks it in the net is great,'' said McIntyre.

The finish is the most important part after he's shown his skill and his third was also a really hard header.

He generated great power and can be pleased with his work.''

There was some criticism from the Staggies' manager for referee Andrew Dallas, who blew early for offside on Scott Boden's goal, only to retract his decision seconds later.

Boden continued and saw his shot deflect in off Andrew Davies, which sparked furious protestations from the visiting players when allowed to stand.

The ref has made a mistake,'' said McIntyre.He thought he heard an offside shout from the assistant and blew his whistle.

It didn't affect the challenge by Andrew Davies but it did have an impact on Scott Fox diving late.

It was disappointing but we told the players not to let it get to them and that's what they did.''

Aside from defensive concerns, Caley Thistle manager Richie Foran also had injury worries after Kevin McNaughton limped off in the first half.

The former Scotland international has endured a broken leg and a torn hamstring over the past two seasons, so will hope it is not another serious injury.

Kevin has an achilles problem,'' said Foran.It doesn't look great as he's hobbling around on crutches.''

Ross Draper rounded off the scoring with a well-struck volley with 25 minutes to go.