Recap
Match Report: ICTFC 0-0 Queen of the South
Written by Adam Sturrock
ICTFC faced off against Queen of The South in a tight encounter at the Caledonian Stadium, with the game played in tough weather conditions.
Like the conditions, neither side could deal with a resilient defence as they have had to make do with a goalless draw. This is the second goal less game in a row for the home side, but it does extend the Caley Jags’ unbeaten run since the start of the season.
The away team started brightly, having most of the ball and trying to probe for an early chance with an in form Stephen Dobbie. Some neat play on the right hand side allowed Harkins to push into the middle and tee up Dykes, but his shot was down the throat of Ridgers.
ICTFC played an unchanged side from the Highland derby last week, but it took 10 minutes before the side started creating chances in response. Aaron Doran swept a shot wide after some nice build up play, and then, after some direction from the home support, picked up a loose ball in the middle and managed to direct a 25 yard effort on target with a low drive but goalkeeper, Martin parried it away.
Liam Polworth tried an audacious effort after swivelling onto his preferred foot on the right hand side of the box, but he dug too deep underneath the ball and his efforts went over the bar.
Both sides did their best to open the scoreline but temperamental Highland weather caused havoc. The wind caught balls midflight and fans huddled together as rain, wind and shine graced The Caledonian Stadium. The players entered inside at half time, having struggled to make good on good passing exchanges.
Perhaps taking some inspiration from the Ryder Cup, Dobbie was tee-d up by a free kick from 30 yards out and his effort came closest to opening the scoreline. His well-hit shot seemed to have caught the wind and it dipped, but not enough as it cannoned off the crossbar, a few inches separating proceedings.
ICTFC dominated down that left hand side but in the middle, QOS’s defence were meeting every cross as they tried to keep the tie level.
The 0-0 result at full-time was frustrating as both sides could see opportunities to open the score, but each defence was well drilled and unwilling to allow easy chances to be made.
The Caley Jags next play Morton, as they hope to regain the top spot in the league.
ICTFC: Ridgers, Rooney, Mckay, Donaldson, Tremarco, Chalmers, Welsh, Polworth, Doran (Calder 76′), Walsh (Austin 63′), White (Mackay 81′)
QOTS: Martin, Mercer, Doyle, Semple, Marshall, Stirling (Frizzell 77′), Jacobs, Todd, Harkins (Norman 77′), Dykes, Dobbie
Referee: Alan Muir
Attendance: 2,029