Preview - Flumartari (h)

Last updated : 22 July 2009 By Firparkcorner

Jim Gannon’s answer has to be - yes we can!  He has had the squad under his control for only three weeks and his influence and style are becoming apparent with every passing game.  His reliance on attacking football will have to bear fruit if Motherwell are to progress to the next qualifying round where either Steau Bucharest or Ujpest await.

Motherwell in Albania

                                                     Motherwell in Albania


It is possible that we may see two of Gannon’s three new signings to date make their debuts in claret and amber.  Chris Humphrey and Steve Jennings are both eligible for the tie while the latest to join up, Giles Coke from Northampton Town, will have to hope that we make the next round so he can make his European mark.

The disappointment following the narrow loss in Vlore should now be forgotten and we need to be fully committed to the dual tasks in hand.  The first is to score at least a couple and the second is to keep a clean sheet.  The domination, in terms of possession at least, which Motherwell had in the first leg suggests that we should have enough of the ball to do the job in Airdrie.  The first goal will surely force the Albanians to reverse any defensive plan and give us a better chance in an open game.

Sutton will be hoping to make amends for his penalty miss and the new players will be keen to make a good impression with the fans.  The main stand at the Excelsior is already sold out and tickets for the East Stand are going at a steady rate.  Despite the game taking place during the traditional holiday period in Lanarkshire there will be a healthy backing for the team and there will be every reason to celebrate a 3-0 win.