League Cup heartbreak for Ross County

They've been beaten by Motherwell in a five goal thriller

Published 10th Aug 2017

Motherwell boss Stephen Robinson praised the character of his players after they advanced to the League Cup quarter-finals with a 3-2 extra-time win at Ross County despite playing the last 20 minutes with 10 men.

Gael Bigirimana gave Motherwell the lead early in the second half but County hit back with a fine solo goal from Alex Schalk.

Chris Cadden fired the visitors ahead five minutes into extra-time but County equalised when Craig Curran scored from the spot after being taken down by Charles Dunne.

Dunne was sent off, but the 10 men won the tie with a goal from substitute Ross MacLean in the 112th minute.

Robinson said: We showed a lot of character. We also had chances before we got the winner.''

The Well boss confirmed he intends to appeal the dismissal of Charles Dunne although he does accept it was a penalty.

He said: I've seen it back and it is a definite penalty. But he has made a genuine attempt to win the ball, we will be appealing the red card.''

Motherwell will face Aberdeen in the last eight and Robinson added: It is a super draw for us, a tough draw. Aberdeen are a super side. But we are at home and it brings more money into the coffers.''

County boss Jim McIntyre could not fault the effort of his players and said: It felt like a boxing match with two teams going toe-to toe, with plenty chances for both teams.

They have been a bit more clinical than what we've been. It was poor defending for us with the winning goal. We had the bodies there but we stepped up instead of matching the run and we get punished so that is a sore one.

I can't fault the effort or the number of opportunities we created. The character to come from behind, we just kept at it. Good luck to Motherwell in the next round, they are the ones who have taken their opportunities.'