Battle lines drawn for top of table showdown

The prolific striker has proved a revelation for the Bairns since arriving as an unknown in the summer, with his 19 goals helping Steven Pressley’s side hang on to the Staggies’ coat tails at the top of the First Division.

But the Moroccan has found himself singled out for ‘special treatment’ in recent weeks and needed the physio after just a minute in the recent goalless draw with Hamilton when he was fouled from behind by experienced marker Mark McLaughlin.

The former Bergerac and Wydad Casablanca player has been warned by manager Pressley to get used to the roughhouse tactics as opposition defences attempt to snuff out the obvious danger he poses.

But the athletic marksman is determined not to be intimidated and is keen not to be burdened by the expectation of his growing reputation.

He said: “All the teams know how we play and they try to give me special treatment. I have to deal with that because I have no choice and just try to give more.

“Every single game you’ve got to give your best and focus on that. Mentally, there is a little intimidation and you have to show you will not let your head go down. If you win your battle against the defenders, you normally win the game and that’s a key thing.

“Against Hamilton, it was like ‘welcome to the game – it’s not going to be easy for you!’ But it’s okay, I like that. I like this kind of game – it’s a little like a war and I have no problem with it.”

He added: “When Ross County beat us up there it was a hard game for everybody because they defended very well.

“The Monday after the game the manager told me it would be like that because I had scored so many goals. At the beginning no-one knew me but now they do and things have changed. He said I now had to give more in every single game, in the gym and on the training ground.

“I agreed with him because I feel in that game something changed, that I was getting special attention from the defenders.

“It was a good discussion because I was a little disappointed after the game. But when I spoke to him I was okay and ready to give more to the moment.”

Falkirk could haul themselves to within three points of County with a win this afternoon - but could slip nine points adrift with defeat.

The 3-1 loss suffered in the Highlands six weeks ago still rankles with the Bairns and El Alagui admits today could prove pivotal in their hopes of pushing the Staggies all the way in the promotion battle.

He added: “This game is a big opportunity to show if we will be in the fight until the end of the season.

“I think Ross County are one of the best teams in the league. Their performances have been incredible - they have lost just one league game this season. But I believe we can do something in this game.”

Ross County manager Derek Adams is just as bullish about his side’s prospects today. He stressed: “Falkirk, like us, have an unbeaten home record. They have only drawn two matches at home, one of which was against ourselves. They have an opportunity to close the gap, but it’s also an opportunity for us to extend or maintain our advantage. We’re going there to win the match.”

Striker Sam Morrow remains injured, while midfielder Russell Duncan is still working back to full fitness.

Defender Johnny Flynn also picked up a knee injury in training last week to join Marc Fitzpatrick on the treatment table.

But skipper Richard Brittain returns from suspension.

Adams added: “Richie had played the whole of the season up until the Dundee game and is a very important player for us.

“He’s the captain and leader of the team, so we’re glad to have him available again.”