There were many pleasing aspects to our play. The effectiveness of Johnson and Ainsworth was a major feature. Each was in control of his own wing but the willingness to come into the box and receive the ball from the other side was vital. That strategy, shown to best effect just before the break when Ainsworth chipped over the six yard box to Johnson, that ended with the cut back to McDonald for the third goal. The bewildered St Mirren defence were dizzy as they were turned. It was also significant to note that when Ainsworth delivered the pass from the dead ball line before the opening goal there were four Motherwell players lined up at the six yard line eager for the ball to arrive.
Both of Erwin’s goals showed fine skill from the big lad. His turns are normally the sort associated with smaller strikers – McDonald or Arnott – and his close control allied to height, speed and strength suggests we have a potential gem.
Despite the recent change in the preferred striking duo it’s been heartening to see that Sutton’s attitude remains as professional as ever. His contributions from the bench have been outstanding and the smile on his face as he grabbed another brace lit up Fir Park.
Our tactics at corner kicks have altered. We now form a cluster then disperse in a starburst as the ball is delivered. Confusion follows and chances are made. That’s more evidence that training ground tactics are paying dividends.
Attention now turns to another big game as the final fixture ahead of the split takes us to Firhill. We are bound to find the opposition stiffer that St Mirren but with the team playing so well there’s every chance that we’ll close the gap by Saturday evening.