Partick vs Inverness CT Match Recap - Jan 13, 2026

Inverness CT Triumphs in Penalty Shootout Drama Against Partick Thistle

Inverness CT's resilience shone through as they edged past Partick Thistle in a gripping penalty shootout after a thrilling 3-3 draw in the Challenge Cup Round of 16. This match encapsulated the unpredictable nature of knockout football, with both teams showcasing their attacking flair and defensive frailties.

Billy McKay emerged as a pivotal figure for Inverness, scoring twice and demonstrating his knack for finding the net when it matters most. His performance continues a remarkable run, having netted four goals in his last two matches, including that staggering nine-goal display against Dumbarton. McKay's ability to capitalize on opportunities has been crucial for Inverness, especially given their recent struggles in league play.

Partick's Kyle Turner also made his mark, contributing significantly to the team's attacking efforts with a goal and an assist. After a mixed bag of results leading into this match, Turner's involvement was a welcome sight for Partick fans. His creativity and vision were instrumental in creating chances, reflecting a potential turning point for a team that had struggled to find the back of the net consistently.

Defensively, both teams exhibited vulnerabilities that were exploited throughout the match. Partick's backline has been shaky lately, conceding an average of 1.6 goals per game over their last five outings. This trend continued as they allowed Inverness to capitalize on set pieces and counter-attacks, leading to critical goals that kept the match competitive. The defensive lapses that plagued Partick in recent weeks resurfaced at crucial moments, ultimately costing them in the penalty shootout.

Inverness CT's recent form has been a rollercoaster ride, with two consecutive league losses preceding this cup tie. Yet, their confidence from the previous round's demolition of Dumbarton seemed to carry over into this match. The ability to bounce back from adversity is a hallmark of successful teams, and Inverness showcased that resilience by not only matching Partick's intensity but also maintaining composure during the penalty shootout.

The tactical battle played out as expected, with Partick attempting to control possession through their 4-2-3-1 formation while Inverness relied on quick transitions and direct play. Partick's midfield duo struggled to impose themselves against Inverness' pressing game, which allowed the visitors to dictate tempo at key moments. This tactical mismatch highlighted the need for Partick to refine their approach moving forward if they hope to regain their footing in both league and cup competitions.

The penalty shootout itself was a microcosm of the match's drama. With both teams trading blows throughout regulation and extra time, it came down to nerve and execution from the spot. Inverness displayed greater composure under pressure, converting four penalties compared to Partick's two. This outcome not only secures their progression in the cup but also serves as a psychological boost after recent league setbacks.

Reflecting on my pre-match prediction, I anticipated a narrow victory for Inverness based on their attacking prowess and Partick's inconsistency. While I expected a close contest, the sheer drama of penalties added an unexpected twist that kept fans on the edge of their seats.

Inverness CT's victory propels them into the next round of the Challenge Cup, while Partick must regroup and address their defensive issues if they are to turn their season around. The narrative of resilience versus inconsistency will continue to unfold as both teams navigate the challenges ahead in their respective campaigns.