Joshua Nisbet opened his Ross County account in stunning fashion to earn a deserved Scottish Premiership victory over blunt Motherwell in challenging conditions in Dingwall.
Seven minutes after Ronan Hale had extended his fine start to life in the Highlands by slotting in the opener, Australia midfielder Nisbet curled an excellent 20-yard finish beyond helpless goalkeeper Aston Oxborough.
Zach Robinson's late header offered a lifeline to the away side, who have enjoyed an impressive campaign, but it came too late in a tough afternoon in the driving rain.
The Fir Park club advised their fans not to travel north because of the impact of Storm Bert, and those who stayed at home did not miss much as their team lacked attacking quality for the majority.
Aside from Steve Seddon's first-half effort - which forced Ross Laidlaw to push wide in the home goal - and Robinson's consolation, chances were severely limited for Stuart Kettlewell's men.
The same could be said for County's opening period, but they stepped it up after the break to earn a win that lifts Don Cowie's side to seventh.