When Brian Graham signed for the Staggies, he offered a different option to the impressive pairing of Liam Boyce and Craig Curran.
The duo’s incredible scoring record – aided by Boyce’s strength and guile and Curran’s predatory instincts – spilled over from last season into this. As a consequence, Graham found first-team opportunities difficult to come by early on.
His first goal came on his third start of the season in the 7-0 League Cup victory over Falkirk. This sparked a run in the first team which included the only two goals in a victory Aberdeen.
Injuries to Boyce and Curran game him a chance to forge an understanding with Alex Schalk and the two have since shown themselves to be an excellent partnership – a classic big-man, little-man pairing.
Graham was instrumental in Ross County’s League Cup Final victory last weekend. With the scores level, Jim McIntyre decided to thrown on the big striker and place him on the left of a front three. He twice had the ball in the net though both were ruled out.
He was then involved in the winning goal, knocking the ball on to Alex Schalk around halfway as County broke. He subsequently raced into the box and his mere presence forced Liam Fontaine into knocking the ball towards Schalk for a tap-in.
Graham started at Morton before moving to Stark’s Park and racking up a fine scoring record with Raith Rovers. This alerted Dundee United who brought him to the top flight. A frustrating spell led to a move to St Johnstone where he finished their joint-top scorer in the 2014/15 season.
His goal in midweek, a penalty versus St Johnstone, took him up to 10 for the season. He has scored three from the spot and a further three with his head. Although he may have been required to be patient at first, his contribution to County’s season has been significant.
