ROSS County picked up their first home points and broke Airdrie's unbeaten away record into the bargain on an encouraging day for Derek Adams' toiling troops. Although at times the Diamonds threatened a comeback in a gritty second-half display, County matched them and held out for a crucial three points.
Airdrie handed County the lead after 10 minutes. Richard Brittain's high ball to the left post led to the own goal, with Marc Smith tapping in under pressure from Steven Craig.
It was a changed Airdrie after the break as the Diamonds pressed forwa
rd. Kevin McDonald's run and shot from 30 yards out was wasteful, with Scott McLaughlin unmarked in support. Then on 55 minutes came a strong claim for an Airdrie spot kick. Steven McDougall's cross came from the right, and only Scott Boyd's grasp at Stuart Noble's shirt prevented the header on goal.
County continued to defend doggedly, as Paul DiGiacomo found McDougall unmarked – the 18 yard shot saved by Bullock and Boyd was on hand to tidy the danger.
Having pushed forward in the first half, County defender Keddie made another great counter-attacking run. His surge took him down the left, and with Craig working into position, the striker saw his header fly wide.
Craig wasn't to be denied and on 77 minutes made sure of the points. Sub Adam Strachan picked him out on the edge of the box, and a composed finish saw him clip a shot into the top-left corner.
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