Mark McGhee thought that the point earned in Dingwall last week was a decent start to what he considered to be the second start to the season. If we are to build on that then a win against the Accies is needed. Anything short of three points would leave us close to the danger zone, an uncomfortable place at any stage in the campaign.
The addition of Lee Lucas to the squad offers some depth in midfield and gives some protection against the inevitable injuries and suspensions that will come. Lasley limped off after 50 minutes in the Ross County game.
The sight of Louis Moult back in harness could be a significant indication that our form is on the way up. His presence seemed to give the team a boost in confidence and his penalty conversion earned a point.
Hamilton have matched our early results with a win and two draws. They lost at Tynecastle despite taking a second half lead against the run of play.
Crawford and Imrie have already scored four goals each since the July start and they provide ample backing for the lone striker, D’Acol.
Hamilton brought more than 500 to Motherwell on their last visit and the first game of the new year was not short of drama. It ended 3-3 with the lead switching and a late penalty salvaging a point for the Accies. On that occasion the away end was the happier at the final whistle but a home win after a tense 2-1 will see three points secured.
Remember the last derby at Fir Park?