Derek Adams is confident his Ross County squad can stand up to the challenge that lies in wait for them in the Scottish Cup this weekend. The Staggies travel to face Hibernian on Saturday, having reached the quarter finals for the first time in their history.
 
County, who were admitted to the Scottish Football League in 1994, are enjoying their strongest season since they were promoted to the senior ranks and are in title contention in the First Division, with a place in next season’s SPL up for grabs.
 
Adams’ team will get the opportunity to test his team against top flight opposition, having seen off Stirling Albion 9-0 in round five, and the Staggies’ manager believes his team have a chance of defeating the SPL’s third placed club.
 
“It's a big game and we are looking forward to it away to Hibernian, who are a top SPL side,” said Adams. “It's a nice day for us, it's a break from league action and we are looking forward to it.
 
“Without a doubt, we go there with a positive frame of mind. We've played well this season and it is the first time the club has got to the quarter finals of the Scottish Cup. We're just looking to try and progress to the next round.”
 
Ross County boast former SPL players in their ranks, such as former St Mirren midfielder Richard Brittain, one-time Aberdeen defender Scott Morrison and Paul Di Giacomo, who played with Kilmarnock. Despite their experience, few expected them to be the side chasing big spending Dundee down for the top spot in this year’s First Division.
 
But Adams, who kept his team up last season in eighth place, says he expected their good form.
 
“There's no surprise for me. I know the quality of player I’ve got in the squad and they are a very good, tight knit squad,” he said. “They love to win games and that shows  on the training field and hopefully in the match on Saturday.
 
County have sold out their 1,600 allocation for Easter Road and a bumper attendance is expected inside the currently three-sided ground, as the Edinburgh club look to end their 108-year run without winning the competition. Playing in front of a larger crowd, the Dingwall club averaged 2,300 last season, will be a huge boost to the visiting players, according to Adams.
 
“There will be a large crowd at the game and a number of our players have played in the SPL before, although a number of them haven't,” said Adams. “It will be good for them to go there and see what it is like to play in front of a full house.”