Celtic - 24h On

The last time we took anything from the first game of the season was in 1999 when a point was secured at Easter Road. The Motherwell faithful were treated to a classic example of grit, determination and belief at the weekend as the team recovered from a two goal half-time deficit. In the end we were unlucky not to take three points but few ‘Well fans would have declined the point had it been on offer at kick off.

Defensive errors from both teams helped to produce lots of goals though the spectacular strike from Brian Kerr stood out as an example of quality finishing.

The loss of Leitch, though unfortunate, will give an opportunity to another. One of the remarkable characteristics of our recent past has been the squad’s ability to produce a youngster of some talent able to grasp a chance. Quinn and Kinniburgh spring to mind immediately.

McCormack (a 21 year old) impressed many with his buzz. It may be that there is more to come when he reaches full match fitness. O’Donnell’s role as the senior outfield player becomes more important. There remains a need for an ‘auld heid’ on the park.

A goal from each of the strikers was pleasing to see and with Clarkson eager to make a mark this season there is every hope that we may see a few goals this campaign.

This early boost together with the confidence gained from the last couple of top six placings must force even the most pessimistic of the Fir Park faithful to be optimistic. The most pleasing quality was revealed in Butcher’s post match interview where he said “I was coming down the tunnel at the break and I could hear a bit of a rant and a rave in our dressing room and I though Maurice had got there before me. The players were having a bit of a go at themselves as they were disappointed at being three one down, and they should’ve been level at half time as they thought that they had played well, which they had. I had to calm the players down as they were very angry and that mission in the second half drove them on, and we got the early goal and I couldn’t ask for any more from them.”

However, the point against Celtic will lose some of its shine if we fail to win next outing against Dunfermline. The same level of belief (and some tightening of the defence) should be enough.