A blunder by Ayr United keeper Craig Nelson gifted Ross County a point in a largely uneventful draw at Somerset Park.

Nelson spilled a Hugh Robertson corner into his own net early in the second half to give struggling County a point.

Ayr had led thanks to Stephen Whalen, making his first start for the club, who struck with a solo effort in the 37th minute.

Sub James Latta almost won it late on for Ayr, but his curling effort was well tipped over by Tony Bullock.

Graham Bayne wasted a great first-half chance for County when he shot tamely wide from six yards out.

Ayr United: Nelson, McManus, Campbell, Craig, Lyle, Chaplain, Smyth, Murray, Dunlop, Kean, Whalen.

Subs: Burgess, Ferguson, Latta, Grady, Dodds.

Ross County: Bullock, Gilbert, Irvine, Webb, Robertson, McCulloch, Tait, Cowie, McLeish, McGarry, Bayne.

Subs: Fridge, Venetis, Mackay, Winters, Higgins.

Referee: D McDonald