DEL'S LEAN MACHINE.

Ross County v QoS

DEREK ADAMS insists his slimmed-down Ross County squad can cope with the demands of the new season.

The County boss tore up striker John Stewart's contract and allowed club captain Stuart Golabek to rejoin Caley Thistle as Tuesday's transfer window shut.

There are now just 16 seniors and three promising kids in the squad but Adams said: "By off-loading two who weren't getting a regular game I'm free to move whenever I want.

"If the need arises I can bring in loan signings or free agents. We'll assess things if there are injuries but at the moment I have a tight-knit group of players.

"Having a strong team spirit is more important than a big squad."

Adams accepts the real challenge for his players now is to maintain the high standards they've set following wins over SPL side Hamilton and Highland rivals Inverness.

But the County boss expects a tough test from Queens tomorrow.

He said: "Queens can pass the ball but they like to go direct too by hitting long balls to Derek Holmes and Peter Weatherson.

"They are a bit like Caley Thistle in that regard and we know what we are going to be up against."

Meanwhile, Queens defender Bob Harris believes his side can extend their eight-game unbeaten run to book a semi-final place.

He said: "We feel as though we're capable of beating anyone at the moment.

"We are scoring goals and are unbeaten in eight games. There is a solid shape to the side and we will go to Dingwall full of confidence."

CAPTION(S):

NUMBERS GAME: Adams is happy to have a small squad