Inverness CT 1 - 0 Morton: Teenager Ross seals crucial Caley win after grim slog

Published on Saturday 13 March 2010 21:03

Ross 64

CALEY Thistle cut Dundee's title lead to just three points – but only after a grim slog against relegation-threatened Morton. It was dire stuff at the Caledonian Stadium but teenager Nick Ross sealed a crucial win in his first outing since September.

Two defeats of Morton by three-goal margins this season suggested a stroll awaited the Highlanders but those thoughts quickly evaporated. Chances were thin in a woeful first half, although Caley held the edge despite fruitless possession.

Morton threatened on half-time, with two Michael Tidser corners hooked off the line first by Stuart Golabek's head and then Ryan Esson's fingertips.

Judging by his touchline antics, Caley manager Terry Butcher was ready to let rip in the dressing room, but there was no immediate response.

Only a Jonny Hayes chip just wide from the right of the box offered hope for the home side.

But a grim match finally ignited with the opener after 64 minutes. Morton were caught on the back foot as a long through pass from Russell Duncan sent Adam Rooney into the box.

His strike from the left side of the box was blocked by the foot of keeper Kevin Cuthbert, leaving young Ross to roll the ball into an empty net. Moments later, Duncan might have hit a second but blazed over the bar.

A rare Morton threat saw Jim McAllister's deflected strike saved by Esson, but Caley Thistle held strong.