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Motherwell youngster Steven Lawless has rejoined Second Division Albion Rovers on a one-month loan deal.

Lawless, who spent time at Cliftonhill last season and helped Rovers gain promotion from the Third Division, will initially spend 28 days at the Coatbridge club.

He made his second ‘debut’ on Tuesday night against Dumbarton, scoring in a 2-1 defeat. Ironically, the Sons opened the scoring thanks to fellow ‘Well player Ross McKinnon.

The 19-year old told motherwellfc.co.uk, “The aim is to go and play and get a couple of games under my belt as there hasn’t been a great deal of opportunities here what with the team doing so well.

“It’s actually good for me that it’s Albion Rovers; as soon as I heard they were looking to take me back I jumped at the chance as it’s a good club. They are struggling at the minute but it’s a decent team who should be doing better than the current league position would suggest.

“It was obviously good for me to score on my first appearance but at the same time, disappointing to lose as I felt we deserved something. We had a couple of decent chances when it went we pulled it back to 2-1 but it wasn’t to be.

“My contract here expires at the end of the current season so the aim is to go and get myself sharp and come back to Motherwell, make an impact and hopefully get another deal.”

The club can also confirm that defender Ross McKinnon has extended his loan deal with Dumbarton for a further two months although Steven Howarth has returned from Alloa Athletic.

The 125th Anniversary strips, worn by the first-team against Leeds Utd, have all been added to our eBay store for you to bid on.

The club’s official eBay store is full of claret and amber goodies you won’t find anywhere else!

From signed merchandise to hospitality packages and money can’t buy experiences, fans have the chance to get their hands on some exclusive Motherwell memorabilia?

Previous auctions have included match-worn shirts, signed footballs, programmes, tickets, and even sponsor rights.

Right now, we have every single 125th anniversary shirt, socks and shorts worn at the Leeds United Pre-Season friendly match. If you can’t remember what they look like, take a look at the match pictures by CLICK HERE.

Or, to browse everything at our official eBay store CLICK HERE.

The club also run charity auctions from time to time where all proceeds go towards one of the many local charities we support.

If you wish to donate an item please contact us on 01698 333333 or email bid@motherwellfc.co.uk.

Standard eBay terms and conditions apply to any purchases.

Motherwell U19s lost for the first time in almost two months as a first-half Blair Henderson strike separated the sides.

The Steelmen dominated possession throughout the ninety minutes and spurned a number of chances, including a 43rd minute penalty where Stevie Hetherington’s low effort was beaten away by goalkeeper Ryan Goodfellow.

Keiran McGachie twice hit the woodwork as the young Motherwell side battled hard but the Pars held firm for the three points much to the disappointment of Gordon Young and the watching Stuart McCall.

Motherwell went into the game on the back of some excellent form and opted for the same starting eleven for third successive game.

And the Fir Parkers carried that form into the early part of the match; taking the game to their opponents. As early as the opening two minutes, Lee Erwin created space for himself on the left flank before delivering a tantalising low ball across the face of goal. It was a yard or so ahead of Keiran McGachie though and it rolled out harmlessly for a goal kick.

That was a sign of things to come and sixty seconds later; McGachie came within an inch of netting his sixth of the season. The former Stenny man burst clear of the Pars’ defensive line and rounded goalkeeper Goodfellow. Unfortunately for the big striker, the angle was tight and his low shot came off the outside of the left hand post.

Incredibly, despite having the lion-share of possession and the best of the chances, Dunfermline took the lead with their first attack and the ‘Well rearguard will have nightmares when they watch a re-run of the goal. Darren Brownlie’s pass-back put Willie Muir in trouble and the ‘keeper could only slice the ball high into the air. It looked to be heading into touch but Brownlie kept it in, allowing Allan Smith to collect. His cross was cut out by Adam Cummins but the Liverpudlian could only watch on in horror as his attempted clearance deflected fortuitously into the path of Blair Henderson who tucked home from close range.

‘Well went quickly in search of a leveller and a McGachie header from a Francis-Angol cross forced keeper Goodfellow into the save. Down the other end, Dunfermline were getting most joy out of pressing Motherwell high up the pitch and they did so again, midfielder Millen finding unlikely space just inside the area but his effort was turned blocked by the sliding challenge of Adam Cummins.

If that was close, the same player came closer ten minutes before the interval when he rounded off an excellent passing move with a low shot that came back off the post. Motherwell’s reply was a low shot from Mboa Mekongo that was pounced upon and held by Goodfellow.

At that point, Gordon Young probably would’ve settled for a 1-0 deficit at the interval but his team had a great chance to get level from the penalty spot. McGachie, Motherwell’s most potent attacking weapon, was the architect, dancing round a few challenges inside the area before eventually being tripped by Jack Brice. Stevie Hetherington quickly grabbed the ball but his low effort was expertly saved by Goodfellow low to his right.

‘Well boss Stuart McCall joined his colleague Young in the dressing room at half-time but it took a while for either side to really stamp their authority. Motherwell dominated in terms of possession and had a number of cross balls flash across the face, but keeper Goodfellow was rarely troubled.

The first noteworthy chance came on the 69th minute mark when McGachie flashed a twelve yard header just wide of the post. The same player burst through again a minute later but his low shot on the diagonal was watched wide by the Dunfermline goalkeeper.

‘Well introduced Adam Ashgar in place of Josh Watt and the substitute almost brought his side with the best chance of the half. A neat move involving Darren Brownlie, Mboa Mekongo led to the young midfielder with an opening at goal. He lost his footing on the now greasy surface and his effort was blocked.

Motherwell were dominating possession but were lacking the luck and composure in front of goal. Less than a minute after Ashgar’s effort, McGachie sent another looping header goalwards but, incredibly, it hit the outside of the post and dropped wide.

It would sum up a frustrating afternoon for Motherwell who now face the long journey north to Aberdeen next week hoping to return to winning ways.

Motherwell: Muir, Brownlie, Francis-Angol (Lynch – 89mins), Cummins, Murray, Mboa Mekongo, Hetherington, MacDonald, Watt (Ashgar – 66mins), McGachie, Erwin (Moore – 29mins)

Subs Not Used: Stewart, Green

The Show Racism the Red Card Fortnight of Action continues this weekend when Motherwell take on Kilmarnock at Fir Park.

The 2011 Fortnight of Action will, for the first time ever, make a stand against both racism and sectarianism.

We believe that it is vital to highlight the anti-sectarian message as well as the anti-racism message at this time, especially when recent incidents have once again highlighted the problem of sectarianism within our communities.

As we are launching the first joint Show Racism and Bigotry the Red Card Fortnight of Action, all professional clubs will take a stand against both racism and sectarianism at a home game during the fortnight. We have developed the ways in which the clubs are able to take action to make it the biggest and most high profile fortnight so far.

At every Clydesdale Bank Premier League fixture this weekend SPL clubs will be united in calling for an end to racism and sectarianism in football and in society. Players in over 40 European countries are involved in similar events as part of the Football Against Racism in Europe (FARE) network against racism and discrimination

Show Racism the Red Card has received excellent support from football clubs, football authorities and football fans the length and breadth of Scotland and we would like to thank you for this.

It has not been without its challenges though and we urge fans to continue to support the anti-racist and anti-sectarian messages. We have heard of many instances where real supporters have turned on racist / sectarian fans making it clear that they are not welcome at their club.

Neil Doncaster, Chief Executive of the SPL, said: “Football is a powerful medium to break down barriers and promote tolerance. Our clubs have supported Show Racism the Red Card since season 2003/04 and once again, this united action in support of the campaign sends out the positive message that football is a game to be enjoyed by all.”

The campaign will continue to speak to all football clubs, the football authorities and the police to eradicate all forms of racist and sectarian behaviour.

The SPL and its clubs deplore all forms of racism and sectarianism and any racist or sectarian behaviour will not be tolerated at Clydesdale Bank Premier League fixtures.

This year the campaign has developed partnerships with local authorities to deliver educational workshops combined with football coaching sessions in a number of regions. The workshops are delivered by a dedicated team of ex-professional footballers and they are a very positive method of educating our young people about the negative impact racism and sectarianism have on Scottish society.

Here’s a brief outline of what’s taking place during the Fortnight of Action this year:

• Anti-racist / anti-sectarian football festivals and projects in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Glenrothes, Falkirk, Inverness, South Ayrshire.
• Show Racism the Red Card actions at Clydesdale Bank Premier League, SFL, SWPL, SWFL, and Scottish Cup matches.
• ‘Unite Against Racism’ actions at UEFA Champions League fixtures.
• Educational workshops in schools and community groups across Scotland.

Football is a sport that is followed by people across the world, and football matches should be an enjoyable experience for all, whatever their racial or religious background. We all have a part to play in stamping out racism and sectarianism in football and society.

If you see or hear racism or sectarianism at any level of football, please report it to stewards or police. Our website also includes updates on Fortnight of Action events and more information on the “Show Racism the Red Card” campaign in Scotland.

www.theredcardscotland.org

Show your support for tackling racism and sectarianism:

Follow us on twitter: @SRtRCScotland

Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/theRedCardScotland

Tom Hateley is hoping to continue quietly racking up the points with another away-day scalp, this time with victory against Hibernian on Saturday afternoon.
 
Without fanfare, the Steelmen have crept into second spot in the Clydesdale Bank Premier League, sitting a point ahead of Glasgow giants Celtic.

‘The ‘Well have already racked up six wins from ten SPL outings, including notable away wins at Rugby Park, St. Mirren Park and, most recently, Tannadice.

[pullquote]We’ve got massive belief in our squad that we can win games. It may be a bit of a surprise to see ourselves sitting in second but it’s something we’re relishing.[/pullquote]

And Hateley admits that all the players are thriving under the relative lack of media focus and expectation at Fir Park – something which has allowed the men in claret and amber to produce some of the most entertaining football in the country.

“We haven’t had much of the limelight and I’m happy about that,” the 22-year old considered. “A lot of the press has been about the Old Firm as it probably should be. That has worked well for us. We have just gone under the radar and done what we had to do to get three points.

“We’ve got massive belief in our squad that we can win games. It may be a bit of a surprise to see ourselves sitting in second but it’s something we’re relishing.

“It’s always nice to prove people wrong that don’t think we can do something as a team or individuals. It’s quite a good feeling to do something you’re not expected to do. All the boys love to play football and that’s the most important thing. You try not to focus too much on what’s going on around you or what people think you should be doing. We’ve got players who can win games for us and as long as they keep doing what they’re doing, I’m sure we’ll all be smiling.

“We have got players at this club that can win you games and are quick and good on the counter attack, and we’ve done well away from home so far due to that. Hopefully that can continue.”

Motherwell’s current success is made all the more notable given the relative lack of depth in the ‘Well pool – something exascerbated by the recent absence of Shaun Hutchinson and the long-term injury of Stevie Saunders.

Hateley even concedes that you could pretty much name the Motherwell XI ahead of time, such is the consistency borne out of a lack of experienced repacements. Yet the results keep on coming.

He continued: “We enjoy playing games, I’m young and I’m not getting tired or sore from playing games. It’s something we’re all enjoying.

It will be interesting to see in a couple of months if we get some injuries or suspensions, what will happen. That could be a problem but until something like that happens, and touch wood it doesn’t, then hopefully we can keep doing well.”

The former Motherwell Young Player of the Year also took the time to praise the foresight of many of the upcoming talents at the club.

It was mooted that there was interest in the likes of Jamie Murphy, Chris Humphrey and Hateley himself over the summer.

But the versatile youngster believes the club – and the players – are reaping the benefits from staying on in North Lanarkshire.

“Murph probably had the best opportunity to go elsewhere in the window just gone but he stayed and that’s great for us.” Hateley lauded.

“As young players, all we want to do is focus on playing games. You don’t want to be sitting on the bench or sitting in the stand somewhere. As long as you’re playing games and enjoying your football, and it always helps to be doing well like we’re doing at the moment.”

Motherwell Football Club are delighted to announce the arrival of the new official web TV channel – MFC TV.

This exciting new service will offer the fans a unique insight into the club and offer increased coverage of not only Stuart McCall and the first-team squad, but other aspects of the club including our Under 19s, Youth Development, Community and Commercial departments.

What can you expect?

There will be several recurring features that you can expect on a week-to-week basis:

• The Fir Park Podcast.
• Memory Match – Highlights from a classic game from the past.
• U19s pre-match build-up and post-match reaction.
• Full U19s highlights.
• Pre-match press conference and interviews with Stuart McCall and the first-team squad.
• LIVE audio commentary from every single match both home and away.
• First-team match highlights.

But that’s far from it. You’ll get behind the scenes access to everything that goes on in and around Fir Park. We’ll be the first to break exclusives – if a player signs, you’ll hear it (and from the player) first on MFC TV. If there’s photocall, player appearance or just a general carry on, we’ll be there to capture it all.

And that’s not all… Our Community Trust is vital to us and you can expect updates from courses as Stevie Kirk and the rest of the Community team work hard to ensure MFC are indeed Scotland’s Community Club.

You’ll also here regularly from the Commercial Department with the latest offerings and events that the club run.

Everything you need to know about Motherwell FC all in one place!

How much will it cost?

It will be a monthly cost of £4.99 and there are a variety of payments options. We’ve made it simple to pay either with your credit card, your debit card or even via direct debit.

What will I need?

A computer or laptop is about it. MFC TV has been tested in all major browsers and uses a flash player to view videos.

When is it available?

We’ll go live this coming Friday (21st October) and Kilmarnock at Fir Park will be our first ever live game. We plan to grow the service and offer additional elements such as live steaming outside the UK and Ireland and compatibility partnership with your Smartphone.

Stuart McCall insists his side will not dwell on what has been a marvelous start to the Steelmen’s Clydesdale Bank Premier League campaign.

Instead, the ‘Well boss has already targeted putting more points on the board with a tough trip to face Hibs on Saturday.

Motherwell currently sit in 2nd place in the SPL after ten matches, providing one of the most memorable opening to a campaign in the club’s history. The only black mark, ironically, came at the hands of Colin Calderwood’s side, as they knocked ‘Well out of the Scottish Communities League Cup partly due to an erroneously disallowed Bob McHugh ‘goal’.

[pullquote]Both sides have a lot of attacking players on the park. Agogo has got his fitness now, and with him and O’Connor up top there is attacking threat.[/pullquote]

But McCall says he isn’t concerned with the past – whether it’s his own sides great league form or the recent defeat to Hibs – choosing, instead, to focus on the future.

“It’s been a great start to the season,” the gaffer praised. “But we won’t be looking back; you’ve always got to look forward in this game. The next game is a difficult trip to a rejuvenated Hibs side.

“It’s possible [to replicating the form of the first quarter of the season in the next set of games] but I would say it’s unlikely. If you were to take this total for every quarter then you’d be up there with about 80 points, challenging for the title. We just need to take every game as it comes and we always try to win them all.

“The lads have played really, really well in most of the games this season. We’ve got a good amount of wins on the board and we’ve deserved that.

“We won’t look back on that either [the defeat on penalties and disallowed goal in the cup] but we will look at the game overall. There was a part of the game when Hibs had a lot of chances, but throughout the game it was their keeper who was tested regularly. And in extra-time we had five outstanding opportunities to win the game.

“Everyone knows the goal should have stood but it’s water under the bridge now. It was a terrific game of football. We have to defend better, but hopefully our attack can be just as potent.

“We can [win anywhere] if we’re at it. Everyone played well against Dundee United and that’s what you need.”

The Motherwell gaffer has admitted that he is wary of the “rejuvenated” Leith side’s attacking potency, which was ably demonstrated as the SPL’s second-top marksman Garry O’Connor fired two goals past the Steelmen in the Scottish Communities League Cup.

O’Connor has been aided in recent weeks by Junior Agogo, who is finding a degree of form and fitness at Easter Road following his summer move. Indeed, the Hibees have only lost one of their last five domestic outings.

With that dangerous pairing, and a supporting cast of the likes of Ivan Sproule and Leigh Griffiths, McCall has no doubts about the task awaiting his defensive unit in the Capital on Saturday.

“The match in the cup was a very open game,” the former Bradford boss recalled. “Both sides have a lot of attacking players on the park. Agogo has got his fitness now, and with him and O’Connor up top there is attacking threat.

“Likewise, we have players in our team who can create chances – I think it’s probably the team that defends best on the day that will come away with three points.

“They’ve picked up some decent results of late and we had a terrific game here against them in the cup which could have finished five-all. I’m sure myself and Colin [Calderwood] will be hoping both defences are on better form this time.

“I’ve been pleased with the defending in our last two games. The home game against Aberdeen was very good and then we went to Tannadice and defended really well as a unit. That’s the whole team; the goalie, the midfield, the wide men and attackers. We need to do that again.”

Despite the initial prognosis suggesting he could be back for the upcoming trip to Edinburgh, Shaun Hutchinson will miss out on the match.

The towering defender has recovered from his ankle knock, but picked up a slight hamstring strain in training which rules him out of contention for the weekend.

McCall continued: “Unfortunately Hutch won’t be ready. His ankle is OK now, but he’s pushed himself a little too hard and has tweaked his hamstring and it’s set him back a couple of days.

“If it was a cup final then maybe we’d risk him, but we’re not in a position where we need to be rushing him back.”

How would you like to win the Clydesdale Bank Premier League trophy for a day?

Clydesdale Bank are always looking for new ways to bring their sponsorship of the Scottish Premier League closer to local communities and they are offering you a unique opportunity to win the Clydesdale Bank Premier League trophy for a day.

Clydesdale Bank want to support activity in your community so tell them why having the Clydesdale Bank Premier League trophy along will add something special to your day.

Whether you are a local school, a workplace, charity, youth group or simply holding an event in your community, tell them why the trophy can benefit your event and the trophy may pay you a visit throughout the course of the season!   

Last season the Clydesdale Bank Premier League trophy visited various schools, workplaces and events throughout the country and now it’s your chance to win.

For further information and details on how to win the trophy for the day visit www.cbfootball.co.uk.

This afternoon’s scheduled U19s match with Dunfermline has been moved to Airdrie’s Excelsior Stadium with a 2pm kick-off.

Bathgate’s Creamery Park was unplayable but instead of cancelling the game, both teams have agreed to the late switch.

Craig Thomson is the man in charge for Saturday’s Sky live Clydesdale Bank Premier League clash with Kilmarnock at Fir Park.

39-year old Thomson, considered to be one of the best officials on the FIFA list, will be handling his second Motherwell game of the current season. His last was also live on television as Rangers ran out 3-0 winners back in mid-August.

Craig will be a familiar face to Fir Park fans having been a top-flight official for almost a decade and taking charge of three league matches last season.

Thomson was the man in the middle for the SPL opener against Hibs when goals from John Sutton and Jamie Murphy wasn’t enough for the victory as Hibs ran out 3-2 winners thanks to goals from Antony Stokes, Paul Hanlon and Liam Miller.

His next appointment was the 1-0 home defeat by Hamilton Accies in the Lanarkshire derby. Then Accies striker Nigel Hasselbaink separated the sides with a 15th minute curler from the edge of the box.

Most recently, he took charge of the 0-0 draw with Hearts last April when an unfamiliar ‘Well side did well to take a point at Tynecastle.

His record in charge of the Steelmen is mixed with nine wins, fifteen defeats and seven draws from 31 matches

Not included in that list was the 2007/08 Scottish Cup fourth round replay win against Hearts at Fir Park, when he replaced the injured Stuart Dougal midway through the second-half.

In those games, Motherwell have scored 39 and conceded 43. 110 players have gone into the book, 52 were wearing claret and amber, while four players, including Stephen Craigan, have been dismissed. The skipper saw red in the 2-0 Scottish Cup defeat to Kilmarnock at Rugby Park six years ago.

Thomson will be ably assisted by Alasdair Ross and Andrew McWilliam with George Salmond on fourth official duties. Referee Observer will be Bryan Robertson with Gerry Collins as SPL delegate.