As Kilmarnock plans to replace their artificial pitch, Cowie insists on readiness for the challenge ahead.
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Introduction to the pitch debate in Scottish football
In recent discussions surrounding the Scottish Premiership, the focus has shifted to the playing surfaces that teams contend with. Don Cowie, a prominent figure in Ross County, has openly endorsed Kilmarnock’s long-term plan to replace their artificial pitch with a natural grass surface.
This move, set to take place at the end of the upcoming season, has sparked conversations about the advantages and disadvantages of artificial pitches in elite football.
The impact of playing surfaces on team performance
Cowie’s support for Kilmarnock’s decision stems from his belief that natural grass surfaces can significantly influence match outcomes.
He noted that Kilmarnock’s home record over the years has demonstrated the advantages of playing on grass, particularly in terms of securing results. “We play in the elite level of football in our country, and I don’t think it’s something that happens too often in other countries,” Cowie remarked, highlighting the unique challenges posed by artificial pitches.
While acknowledging that the transition to grass may not be universally welcomed, Cowie emphasized that his squad is well-prepared for the upcoming match against Kilmarnock. The team has utilized their all-weather training facilities to acclimate to the different surface, ensuring they are ready to face the challenges that come with playing on artificial turf.
Preparing for the match: Mindset and training
As Ross County gears up for their match at Rugby Park, Cowie insists that his players must adopt a focused mindset. He explained that players often prefer consistency in their training environments, and switching from grass to artificial surfaces can be disorienting. “You might feel a little bit uncomfortable, but you’ve got to try and push that away and deal with it,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of mental resilience in overcoming such challenges.
Cowie also acknowledged that some players with historical injuries may struggle with artificial surfaces, but he believes his current squad is equipped to handle the situation. With access to both outdoor and indoor training facilities, the team has been able to prepare effectively, leaving no room for excuses when they face Kilmarnock this weekend.
The competitive landscape of the bottom six
As both Kilmarnock and Ross County enter this crucial match level on points, the stakes are high. Cowie noted the unusual tightness of the bottom six in the league, with only a few points separating several teams. “It’s a reflection of the league throughout the season really. The margins are so tight,” he explained, indicating that every match could have significant implications for relegation battles.
With the season nearing its conclusion, Cowie expressed confidence in his team’s ability to finish strongly. He believes that the competitive nature of the league will keep the pressure on until the very end, making every point crucial. “There’s still that real belief that what we’ve got as a football club and the players that we’ve got, that we’ve got as good an opportunity as any other team that’s in the bottom six to finish the season strongly,” he concluded, reinforcing the determination of Ross County as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
