Prediction v Partick Thistle (a)

Last updated : 30 October 2002 By Phil Swainston

I can’t comment if it is deserved or not but I do know that any abuse thrown at players during games will be counter productive.

The key to picking up points is for TB to try and instil the same sort of spirit and confidence in the side that was evident earlier in the season. Abuse from the terracing makes that task almost impossible. Players are going to make mistakes during ninety minutes but it is more likely that they will make more mistakes if they are receiving abuse rather than encouragement. Abuse leads to nerves and inevitable mistakes whereas encouragement leads to confidence and hopefully better performances. That’s the theory anyway!

It is a big game on Saturday but not just for Motherwell. Thistle will be the favourites and their own support will be expecting them to pick up all three points. So the pressure is going to be felt in the home dressing room. It will be interesting to see how they will cope with that stress.

Saturday also sees the return of James McFadden, refreshed and raring to go. His return will give the whole side a lift and will increase the level of creativity up front and our number of goal scoring opportunities. The question of who goes in between the sticks is unresolved and the postponement of Wednesday night’s clash with Aberdeen robs us of a clue. If I had to hazard a guess however I would think the Frenchman is the favourite to take over for the next few games.

The first thirty minutes are going to be crucial. We have to settle and defend as a unit and await our opportunities to break forward. Be patient and stay focussed (that goes for the support also) and stick the ball in the back of the net when we get the chance.

We will win on Saturday!

Partick Thistle 1 - 2 Motherwell