A MUCH-WEAKENED Dundee set out their title credentials with a hard-earned opening-day victory in Dingwall.
In 90 minutes that crackled with energy, County troubled Alex Rae's depleted side but couldn't find a killer touch. The Dens men could – wi
th Antoine-Curier netting from the spot and Eric Paton thundering home a header. But County, as well as being stung by a dubiously-denied penalty, struck the woodwork twice.
Dundee were ravaged by injuries on day one, with new captures Colin Cameron, Jim Lauchlan and Darren Young among six absentees. That forced manager Alex Rae to lean on two trialists, 31 year-old ex-Sunderland defender Darren Williams and 27-year-old Canadian international Chris Pozniak.
The hosts were screaming for a penalty after 18 minutes when Richie Hart's driven free-kick deflected and David Winters was tugged down by Eddie Malone. The claim was waved away, but the visitors got a crucial decision after 34 minutes.
Mickael Antoine-Curier was caught late by Andy Dowie and took the kick himself.
Just before half-time, Adam Strachan struck the corner of the Dundee bar and post with a swirling 25-yard attempt.
County fell two behind after 50 minutes,Eric Paton rising at the far post to thump a header high past Bullock.
County's Scott Boyd saw a snapshot turned for a corner and Steven Craig also brushed the bar. Golabek's cross from the left was stabbed home by Daal on full-time, but it was just too late.
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