Motherwell continue the quest for Premiership survival on Tuesday when Kilmarnock come to Fir Park for what we hope to be the final home game of 2016/17. This would be a perfect time to record the first back to back league win of the season.
With spirits boosted by the weekend derby win we should take to the field in good heart. Earlier results against Kilmarnock (two wins and a draw) do nothing to raise concern and with our neighbours across the Clyde facing a testy challenge in Dingwall there is a possibility that Saturday’s journey to Inverness may be a free ride. However, let’s not count chickens.
The huge effort at New Douglas Park brought the usual bumps and bruises but there appeared to be no serious injuries and with any luck the manager will be able to select the same eleven. Hammell, Ferguson and Frear are the only concerns and late decisions will be needed. The players will be glad to return to the excellent turf at Fir Park after the trails of the plastic at Hamilton.
Stephen Robinson indicated at his meeting with the press that he will be looking for the same level of commitment and a bit more quality. He underlined the importance of the fans’ support in recent games.
Kilmarnock eased themselves from worries about Championship football with Saturday’s win against Inverness and while McCulloch has yet to have his future settled there is every chance that he may test a few of the younger squad members for this match. That’s not to suggest we’ll get an easy time as the prize pot delivers an incentive for league position. They will want to ensure seventh place.
The players are aware that they have underperformed at Fir Park this season but the time for hard luck stories and excuses has run out. They have to step up and deliver and secure three points. A 2-0 win will do just that.