It could be that a return to home turf will provide the catalyst Motherwell need to return to the form that produced a recent six game unbeaten run. Or maybe the lucky rub will come from a return to claret and amber rather than the black strip that featured in the last two games? Certainly the fans who suffered at Tannadice and McDiarmid will be hoping that the manager's desire that "We'll have to come out fighting on Saturday" is translated into action.
Some more of this please!
In an ideal world the manager would make a few changes and develop winning game plan but McCall's options are severely limited. It will fall to the regulars to turn our fortunes around. They demonstrated that ability following the double cup loss and 4-0 and 5-0 league defeats in November when we were treated to six consecutive wins. There’s no better time that Saturday to get back on track.
Hollis played for 90 minutes in the midweek U20 game against Aberdeen and if he has no reaction we may see a change in goal. Nielsen’s recent form has not impressed. Craig Reid will probably remain at right back. He finished Tuesday’s game with a strapping on his wrist but he was no more to blame for the loss than his team-mates. Anier’s long term shin splints issue got the all clear from a scan and he should make more of a contribution than of late.
Since Motherwell’s win at Tynecastle last month Hearts have earned two wins and two draws before last week’s loss to Celtic. Their league position remains is not a reflection of their recent form but time is fast running out and relegation looks certain.
Their new striker McCallum, on loan from West Ham, has shaken off a knock and seems likely to start. Jason Holt is back following long term injury and the central midfielder will be in contention along with the returning Callum Tapping.
With two (albeit narrow) wins against Hearts already on the books this season we have every reason to anticipate a third this weekend. 2-1 to the Mighty ‘Well.