Ross County began their League Cup campaign with a 3-1 win over Clyde at home on 18 July 2026, but manager Stuart Kettlewell insisted his side could have made the scoreline far heavier. The Staggies led 2-0 inside the opening 10 minutes through Brian Graham and Richard Chin, but Nathan Cannon pulled one back before half-time. A penalty from Graham after the break made it 3-1, yet Kettlewell felt his team missed too many clear chances in the second half alone. League standing: 10th in Championship, 34 pts, 8W-10D-18L from 36 games, recent form LWWLL.
What happened in Dingwall?
Ross County started brightly against Clyde in the League Cup group stage, racing into a two-goal lead within the opening minutes. Brian Graham and Richard Chin both found the net early, but the visitors pulled one back before the break through Nathan Cannon’s header. The Staggies regained control when Graham converted a penalty 10 minutes after the restart, making it 3-1. Yet Kettlewell pointed to a raft of second-half chances that went begging, including clear efforts for Graham and Luke McCarvel. The manager stressed the need to be more clinical in front of goal, even in wins.
Why it matters for Ross County
Kettlewell sees the League Cup as an opportunity to boost individual and collective confidence, with goals coming quickly in this competition. The win leaves County on 36 goals scored this season and 57 conceded, a -21 goal difference. Goals this season: 36 scored, 57 conceded (-21 goal difference). The manager praised summer signing Lewis Strapp for his composure and energy, while also highlighting Dylan Smith’s contributions at right-back. Kettlewell also noted Brian Graham’s influence, despite being withdrawn while on the verge of a hat-trick for the second time in two weeks.
What comes next for the Staggies?
The focus now shifts to maintaining momentum and tightening up in front of goal. Kettlewell stressed the need to command the box better and avoid giving opponents unnecessary incentives. With Title race: 43 points behind leaders ST Johnstone, every chance counts as County aim to climb the Championship table. The next fixtures will test their progress, with the manager keen to ensure the side doesn’t rely solely on winning games but on dominating them. Last result: Raith Rovers 3-2 Ross County (2026-05-01). Recent form (last 5): 3W-0D-2L (LLWWW, most recent first).
