Ross County last night tasted one of the greatest nights in the Highland clubs 81-year history when Derek Adamss side dumped Hibernian out of the Active Nation Scottish Cup to land a semi-final place against Celtic next month.
Goals from Garry Wood and Scott Boyd the latters winner in the 2-1 victory coming with just one minute of regulation time remaining stunned Hibernian, who had taken the lead through Anthony Stokes just after half-time. Wood equalised after 69 minutes before Boyds dramatic winner for the Irn-Bru first division club.
The outcome triggered delirium inside Victoria Park, whose tight 6,000 capacity housed as many people on the night as actually live in Dingwall. A pitch invasion at the final whistle left most of the County players being engulfed.
County will now face Celtic next month, while Hibernian will be subject once more to their annual, painful taunt. It is now, officially, 108 years since the Easter Road side last won Scotlands national cup competition.
Related LinksBoyds late winner sends Hibernian packingGardyne excited at prospect of Celtic drawThe night was a family triumph for George and Derek Adams George being Countys director of football, while Derek, his son, is the clubs manager. Between them the pair have revived the Dingwall club, who are also currently chasing promotion to the Clydesdale Bank Premier League.
It is unbelievable for a small town like us it is a dream occasion for us, Derek Adams said. Weve got a great team spirit. My players never know when they are beaten. This is a great occasion.
I am delighted for everybody, but I never stop to enjoy the moment. I always look forward to the next game. Weve got a big game coming up against Dundee on Saturday, so Im now praying about that.
Roy MacGregor, a long-standing fan and benefactor of the club, was also beside himself at the outcome. It has been wonderful tonight to see the joy and excitement of our fans, he said. Weve got an old-fashioned football ground here at Victoria Park and it made the occasion all the more exciting. Weve put this club on the map once more tonight.
John Hughes, the Hibernian manager, said he found the whole occasion galling. Its a huge disappointment, he said. We are not playing well at this moment in time.
We are not expressing ourselves right at the moment as a team. I think one or two of my players could look in the mirror and ask, Could I do more? Weve got the talent here, but we also need hard work, plus that mental tool.
But, as much as it pains me, I give credit to Ross County and I hope they go and enjoy their semi at Hampden.
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