LIVINGSTON'S six year spell in the Scottish Premiership is coming to a sorry end soon…and Ross County have the chance to relegate them on Saturday.
David Martindale's side were always up against it, but their last lingering hopes of a great escape surely died when County beat Rangers in the last match before the split.
That sent the Staggies 12 points clear of Livingston at the bottom and they play this weekend in the first of the five game, post-split period. Livi are also 13 goals worse off.
Realistically, there's no way they are clawing that back and have surely accepted their fate. Let's be honest, their demise won't be mourned by too many Scottish football fans due to the much-criticised surface and lack of fans, but that's a debate for another day.
County are desperate for the points though because they could go above St Johnstone and out of the relegation play-off if they win and Saints don't. The Dingwall side escaped last season with a dramatic play-off comeback against Partick Thistle when they looked doomed.
Don Cowie is still only interim manager, but will surely get the gig permanently if he guides them to safety and they have certainly picked up under him.
How the bookies view it
Livingston are generally marginal favourites in most places, but there's little between them. You can back Livingston at 8/5 with Boylesports and Ross County at a stand-out 19/10 with UniBet. The draw is 12/5 with McBookie.com
Recent head to heads
There have been two draws and a narrow 3-2 win for County in the Highlands this season. Last season, there were two wins apiece home and away so there's no clear edge here.
Players to watch
Stephen Kelly scored a double the other week for Livingston at Hearts and the ex-Rangers midfielder will be hoping to follow that up at 5/1 to score anytime with bet365.
Simon Murray has enjoyed a brilliant season with the Staggies and his 18 goals in all competition have gone under the radar somewhat. He's scored four in his last three games against Aberdeen, Hearts and Rangers. He is 11/4 to score anytime with bet365 which looks to be good value.
Anything else catch the eye?
County look too big at 19/10 against a doomed Livingston who must surely know the game's up.
Livingston have improved but defensively they remain a shambles and they keep giving silly goals away. They've won one game at home in the league since October and an improving County have to be backed here.
They've scored two goals recently against Hibs twice, Hearts and three against Rangers. They can net twice here at least at 7/4 with UniBet.
This Scottish Premiership match between Livingston and Ross County will be played on Apr 27, 2024 and kick off at 15:00. Check below for our tipsters best Livingston vs Ross County prediction. You may also visit our dedicated betting previews section for the most up to date previews.
