A dire Motherwell team managed to lose 3-0 to an Inverness side that were almost as poor. Our second half defensive collapse turned a likely bore draw into a horrible defeat.
The catalogue of criticism that could be levelled at the Motherwell players would fill pages. They lacked pace, commitment and aggression. Loose passing ended any tentative moves into the opposition half and there was no spirit shown until the game was effectively lost.
At least we have a decent pitch!
That’s not to suggest the Inverness were much better. The first half was a featureless bore. The highlight was a head clash that saw Tremarco and Tait receiving much care and attention from the medical staff. Neither ‘keeper was troubled and the 3,00 fans inside Fir Park looked for some change in attitude for the second period.
Sadly, there was little to suggest that the manager’s team talk would make any difference. Vigurs provided our only hope of a goal in the 46th minute when he almost found Fon-Williams’ net with a defensive clearance. The visiting ‘keeper had no shots to save for the remainder of the game.
We conceded after 57, 67 and 83 minutes. The first couple arrived when the ball fell first to Tremarco then to Doumbouya in the crowded area. Both were met with a resigned acceptance by the home crowd as the 90 away fans saw a reward for their long journey.
McDonald then Ainsworth and McFadden were thrown in to save the game but it was all too late. Polworth’s goal was a decent low drive and significantly, it was on target. Something that our attackers failed to do.
Our players had 10 days to prepare for this game but they delivered a performance more suited to a meaningless end of season affair.
They have fallen into the play-off place and thoroughly deserve to be there. A huge improvement will be needed when Ross County arrive on Saturday.
Motherwell 0 Inverness 3
Attendance 3,131 (90)
Team: Samson, Tait, McMillan, Heneghan, McManus, Moult, McLean (Ainsworth 76), Cadden, Lasley, Clay (McFadden 76), Bowman (McDonald 62)