Ross County maintained their flawless start to the Scottish League One season with a 3-1 victory over Airdrie at the Excelsior Stadium on August 22. Manager Stuart Kettlewell told the club's media channels he was particularly satisfied with how his players regained control after conceding.

Adam Emslie and Jamie Lindsay had the Staggies two goals ahead at the break. Lewis Gibson pulled one back for the visitors early in the second period, but Akil Wright sealed the win with a 74th-minute header. The result leaves County second in the table, one point behind Hamilton Academical but with a game in hand.

How did Ross County handle Airdrie's fightback?

Kettlewell expected a strong reaction from Airdrie after their heavy defeat the previous week. He acknowledged the physical challenge his team faced early on. "I felt that we got a response off Airdrie off the back of them losing 4-0 last week," Kettlewell said. "You do expect that when you are playing against a good side."

The manager highlighted the period after County's second goal as key. He felt his team showed the necessary composure to play through Airdrie's pressure. When Gibson scored to make it 2-1, the response was immediate. Wright's headed goal from a set-piece settled the match. "I am happy with how we reset," Kettlewell added. "We were loose after they scored but we created chances."

What has Adam Emslie added to the attack?

Kettlewell reserved special praise for goalscorer Adam Emslie, who joined the club last season after leaving Aberdeen. The forward spent much of the previous campaign on loan at Cove Rangers. His start to this season has impressed his manager. "You see what Adam has been doing in early part of the season," Kettlewell noted. "It is a wonderful goal and it is a great to have someone in your team that is comfortable on both feet."

Emslie's versatility and finishing ability provide a different option in the final third. The manager pointed out the player's knack for finding good positions in the box. This quality is reflected in the team's early season form, which you can track on our stats page.

What is next for Ross County?

The focus now shifts to the KDM Evolution Trophy. County host Highland League side Banks o'Dee at the Global Energy Stadium on Tuesday night. Kettlewell plans to use the match to maintain momentum and squad sharpness. "We will look forward to the game on Tuesday back at home," he said. "We are using the competition to make sure everyone is up to speed and continue the winning streak everyone is on."

This cup fixture offers a chance to rotate the squad ahead of a busy period. The full schedule of upcoming matches is available on our fixtures list. County's next league assignment is a trip to face Hamilton Academical on September 5, a match that could see them top the standings.

How does the squad look for the season ahead?

The early signs are promising for a squad that has integrated several new faces. The balance between experienced players like Lindsay and newer additions like Emslie appears effective. The team has shown an ability to score goals from different sources and situations through the opening weeks.

Defensive solidity will be tested as the season progresses, but the initial returns are positive. Keeping key players fit will be important for sustaining a promotion challenge. The current squad depth can be reviewed on our dedicated squad page.

Ross County's next match is the KDM Evolution Trophy tie against Banks o'Dee at the Global Energy Stadium on Tuesday, August 25.