Christmas comes early to Fir Park

Last updated : 21 December 2013 By Firparkcorner

Shining through an excellent display was an impressive contribution from Ainsworth.  The visiting defenders will be glad they'll not face him again until the last game before he split in April.  McCall made it clear before the match that he hopes to extend the loans of Anier and Ainsworth, their performance will strengthen his case.

We fielded the same eleven that started against Ross County in last week's win and made the first chance inside the opening ten seconds when Anier's near post header gave Kello notice of a busy afternoon.   At the other end Twardzik, making his second start, had to wait until midway through the second half before he had to stop a direct shot.

The opening goal came after half an hour but we had a couple of excellent efforts before then.  Kello did well at full stretch to save Hutchinson's header following Ainsworth's corner then the Saints 'keeper had to block Ainsworth's close range shot.   The visiting goalie made a poor attempt at clearing a back pass and Ainsworth collected it at the windy end of the O'Donnell stand.  Anier collected, turned his man and blasted high into the net from twelve yards from the right.

The lead was doubled ten minutes later. A one-two with Sutton gave Ainsworth a chance from close range to give us a two goal lead.  There was little threat from St Mirren and our defence dealt well with the few attacking opportunities created by the visitors.

Our dominance of the game continued after the break and we continued to press for the killer third goal.  Motherwell looked happy in possession and our passes were finding their targets.  Ainsworth continued to offer menace on the wing and he played his part on the hour before Anier closed in on goal from the left.  He spurned his striking partner who was waiting at the far post and instead took the strike.  Kello stopped the shot.

Anier's controlled first time touch from Vigurs' cross found the net in the 63rd minute.  It was a touch of class from the Estonian and ended any remote chance of a comeback from the Saints.

McCall was able to substitute both Anier and Ainsworth and the home crowd stood as they showed appreciation for fine performances.  St Mirren were fortunate to escape with the loss of only three goals such was our control of the game.

Aberdeen will provide a harder test on Boxing Day but with back to back wins already secured we can travel north ready to offer a tough challenge.  Three in a row is within our grasp.