Next up - Hearts

Last updated : 09 January 2014 By Firparkcorner

Motherwell ended a scary spell in administration over a decade ago. The memory lingers, the lesson was learned and we understand the worries of fellow fans but there are three valuable points at stake.

The postponement of last week’s game against Inverness has given Stuart McCall’s team a few extra days to recover from the busy holiday schedule.  The hope of extending the five game winning run has been delayed but there’s no doubt that six in a row will be the target. 

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Happy Higgy at Tynecastle last season

Much has been made of the problems facing Gary Locke.  His young team has struggled and have managed only 3 wins from 21 league outings and none in the last 8 games.  Injuries and a suspension have limited his options and now understandable but futile appeals for a lifting of the signing ban have begun.

Locke blamed his team's  lack of aggression and poor defending after the home defeat to Partick Thistle on Sunday.  They've lost 15 goals in their last four Tynecastle matches  and the manager will be looking for an improvement when Motherwell visit. 

The bookies have us at 1/2 to take three points but 'Well fans remember the last time we short priced favourites - Albion Rovers dumped from the Scottish Cup.  That horror show was followed by a splendid winning run and the team must be confident of adding to that sequence. 

Dan Twardzik is back at Dens Park so we'll see Nielsen in goal but there's no reason to expect any change in the outfield selection.  The club are hopeful that Anier's loan spell will be converted into a signing and he and Sutton will expect to add to their tally.  The shaky Hearts defence will be aware that goals are flowing from a host of Motherwell players.  Vigurs, Ainsworth, McFadden, Lasley and Francis-Angol have joined the main striking pair on the goal sheet in the last two outings.

An early strike may ease the path and we could return along the M8 happy with three points after a 3-0 win

Remember the last visit to Tynecastle?