The progress made by Inverness since their promotion has been a revelation and many are surprised to see their position in the league table. Motherwell fans know well enough how Terry Butcher can inspire a group of players but we’ll be hoping for his team to have an off day this weekend.
Motherwell can take some comfort from an examination of our hosts’ home form. They have won only one of the five outings on their own patch and their success has been built on three away wins. Our record in the Highlands is good, in the last two seasons when ICT were in the top flight we took all the points.
Terry’s lot will be confident and they’ll be looking to stretch their five game unbeaten run. On the other hand we have to recover from the first top flight home loss to Hamilton in many, many years.
‘Well fans know that our success this season depends heavily on keeping our small squad fit and free from suspensions. Although self discipline can protect us from cautions, we cannot hope to survive a season without suffering the inevitable knocks and stains, just ask Lasley and Murphy.
It is a tribute to the pair that their recent absence has caused us some discomfort and if John Porteous can work his magic and get the pair back we’ll greatly improve our chances. Lasley breaks up opposition threats and sets the likes of Murphy free to probe for openings.
This game will complete the first cycle and allow a meaningful projection of the season ahead. It would be a fine achievement if were to retain third place and a 1-0 win would do the job.
Remember our last SPL game in Inverness?