Learning curve as Locos dumped in cup

INVERURIE Locos’ Scottish Cup dreams were dashed in Dingwall by ruthless Ross County.

The promotion-chasing Division One outfit afforded the Garioch side the respect of putting out a full strength side, and once they went ahead the result was never really in doubt.

But Locos manager Dave Cormie was gracious in defeat, and insisted his players can take what they learned from their full-time opponents and put it into use in the Highland League.

He said: “Professional teams like Ross County are excellent at seeing space and spotting movement.

“If you cannot keep your shape at the back and in midfield then a team like that will spot it right away and they will punish you.

“It is accentuated when you play better sides like County and, hopefully, my players will have seen that and will now look to take it into our game in the Highland League.”