The form guide gives little help in forecasting the outcome of this 10th v 12th meeting. Between them the pair have one win and nine defeats from the opening five rounds of the campaign and Motherwell have now played almost 400 minutes without scoring. While it is far too soon to talk of a relegation dogfight there will be an element of fear in the air.
The Staggies will be hoping for the traditional 'new manager bounce' as Jim McIntyre takes charge for the first time. Do players make that extra effort to impress the new boss? Despite the departure of Derek Adams three players joined the multinational squad before the August transfer window closed. Michael Gardyne, Darren Barr and Jackson Irvine swelled the ranks of the first team pool to 23.
The short history between the teams shows that Victoria Park favours neither side with a draw, a loss and then a win for Motherwell last December.
The international break came at the right time for Stuart McCall's men. It gave those returning from long term injuries a further fortnight's recovery time and with luck we'll see Ramsden, Vigurs and Hammell available for selection. It also gives new signings O'Brien and Ojamaa time to increase speed and stamina.
Both teams will want to reboot their season following poor starts and we can expect a close encounter. The bookies have us as 6/4 favourites, let’s hope they got it right and we can enjoy the run home with a 2-1 victory.
Remember the last trip to Dingwall?