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    Motherwell 0 – 2 Fulham

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    Ainsworth itching for Fulham contest

  • Archive

    ‘Well players prepare for Fulham

  • Archive

    Old friends test for McCall

  • Archive

    MFC Community Trust: Job opportunity

  • Archive

    Fulham visit this Saturday at 2pm

  • Archive

    Ramsden on the comeback trail

  • Archive

    Bob wants the striker job

  • Archive

    Player Sponsorship Opportunities

  • Archive

    You Tube: Lasley talks pre-season

  • Archive

    Motherwell 0 – 2 Fulham

    Motherwell lost 0-2 to an impressive Fulham side in their final preparation match prior to Thursday’s Euro tie against Stjarnan.

    The Steelmen showed some good touches, had some positive periods in possession and carved out some half chances, but the opposition was worthy of their victory.

    Cameron Burgess opened the scoring when he headed home Chris David’s corner in the first half before Kostas Stafylidis added a second after the break with a shot from distance.

    All in all, it was a good workout for the Fir Parkers who now must up their game against the unbeaten Icelandic side in five days time.

    Stuart McCall named a familiar looking side with summer recruit Dan Twardzik the only “newcomer” in Claret and Amber.

    Felix Magath handed a debut to former Steelmen favourite Ross McCormack, who partnered young Moussa Dembélé in attack.

    There was also an emotional homecoming for Shaun Hutchinson, the big Geordie having left for London just over a month ago after seven years at Fir Park.

    It was the tourists who started the brighter and forced an early corner, but the Well rearguard held firm.

    Indeed, it was the Claret and Amber men who created the first real opportunity of the half when Iain Vigurs’ effort at goal was flicked on by Bob McHugh, only to drop inches wide of the post.

    Motherwell showed more attacking invention but it was the Whites who took the lead on the 20th minute. Chris David’s beautiful corner was perfect for Cameron Burgess who powered a header into the far corner.

    The home side looked for an instant reply through McHugh but his shot stung the palms of Cottagers keeper Marcus Bettinelli.

    Both sides continued to create in what was an entertaining first half. McCormack forced Twardzik into a good punch before David curled a free-kick just wide. Christensen was also unlucky to watch his 25-yard strike fly inches over the crossbar.

    Down the other end, Sutton fired over after some positive play down the left flank.

    Into the second half and after numerous half-time changes, Fulham doubled their lead. Kostas Stafylidis collected from distance and his fierce shot wasn’t properly dealt with by Twardzik, only for the wet ball squirm agonizingly over the line.

    The game hit a bit of a lull with both sides ringing the changes.

    Iain Vigurs brought things back to life on the 71st minute with a stinging low volley that forced the keeper into a good save following excellent build up on the left flank from Stevie Hammell, sub Dom Thomas and Keith Lasley.

    As the game reached its conclusion, it was Fulham who finished the stronger. Twardzik made an excellent stop to deny McCormack with nine minutes left before again saving from both Bangna then Williams from close range.

    Motherwell: Twardzik, Reid (Kerr – 72mins), Hammell, Carswell (Leitch – 76mins), Ramsden, McManus, Ainsworth (Francis-Angol – 46mins (Thomas – 55mins)), Sutton (Erwin – 76mins), Vigurs (Cadden – 76mins), Lasley, McHugh (Law – 46mins)

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    Ainsworth itching for Fulham contest

    Lionel Ainsworth admits the squad can’t get wait to get back into footballing action against Fulham tomorrow.

    After three weeks of fitness work and four bounce matches, the Fir Parkers set it up a few gears when Felix Magath’s side are in town tomorrow.

    Not only do the Cottagers have numerous International quality players in their side, they have two ex ‘Well favourites in Shaun Hutchinson and Ross McCormack.

    Speaking to the gathered press, Ainsworth said: “We’ve had a few tough weeks training and some competitive bounce matches but everyone is really looking forward to this one.

    [pullquote]We’ve had a few tough weeks training and some competitive bounce matches but everyone is really looking forward to this one.[/pullquote]

    “I don’t think any player would say they enjoy pre-season but as they go, it’s been good so far.

    “You can see in training the lads are ready to go and we hope to use the Fulham game to bounce in into the European match against Stjarnan.”

    Asked if he was looking forward to a 50/50 tackle with his former teammate Hutchinson, he joked: “I’ll beat him to the ball!

    “In all seriousness, it’s a brilliant opportunity for Hutchy (Hutchinson) to go down there. It’s a great club and he’s a great guy and if he gets his chance, I am sure he’ll shine.

    “Everyone knows what he did for the club here over a number of years and everyone wishes him all the very best and hopes he goes on to bigger and better things.”

  • Archive

    ‘Well players prepare for Fulham

    Action pictures from Dalziel Park as the Motherwell squad prepare for Saturday’s clash with Fulham.

    Snaps courtesy of JSH Pix.

    [svgallery name=”fulhamtrainingjuly14″]

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    Old friends test for McCall

    Stuart McCall thinks facing some old friends when Fulham visit Fir Park on Saturday will be excellent preparation ahead of the Europa League qualifier.

    The Steelmen will take on either Bangor City of Wales or Stjarnan of Iceland in the 2nd Qualifying Round next Thursday night at Fir Park.

    Before that though, Felix Magath will bring his Fulham squad, containing former ‘Well players Shaun Hutchinson and Ross McCormack, to North Lanarkshire for an attractive looking pre-season friendly.

    And the Scotland assistant coach hopes the stiff test his side will no doubt face will stand them in good stead ahead of the Steelmen’s eleventh Euro tie in the last six years.

    [pullquote]The real importance of this fixture for us is to have a thorough test prior to our Europa League match.[/pullquote]

    Speaking to the gathered press at a pre-match news conference, McCall said: “The real importance of this fixture for us is to have a thorough test prior to our Europa League match.

    “Over the last few seasons we’ve been fortunate enough to have some good games here against the likes of Leeds United, Nottingham Forest, Newcastle Utd and Everton, which has always stood us in good stead for the campaign ahead.

    “So far we’ve played in four closed-door matches but this will obviously be a step up; we will go from being favourite to underdogs.

    “However, whilst it might be nice to win these games, I must stress that it is not about the result, it’s about the preparation, getting people through what will be for some players their first 90 minutes.

    “Obviously we are looking forward to welcoming back Shaun Hutchinson and Ross McCormack to Fir Park but the real matter is what we take from the match.”

    Tickets for Saturday’s match with Fulham (2pm KO) are available on the gate priced at £10 for adults and £5 for juvenile/concessions.

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    MFC Community Trust: Job opportunity

    Motherwell FC Community Trust is happy to announce a job opportunity has become available at Fir Park.

    Job Description

    Creating Chances Co-Ordinator

    17.5 hours per Week

    Temporary Until May 2017

    Salary: £19,500 (pro rata)

    Creating Chances is funded by Children in Need, North Lanarkshire Council, and NHS Lanarkshire and will use the power of sport to engage young people who may otherwise be difficult to reach in local communities. The project will engage male and female young people in a range of constructive activities to increase participation in sport; breakdown barriers between statutory bodies such as the police and Fire Service; reduce crime and anti social behavior; encourage volunteering; and create routes into education and training.

    The project will also deliver personal development activities covering issues from healthy eating to career development.

    We are looking for a motivated individual to become of Creating Chances Co-ordinator who understands the issues and challenges of young people who are hard to reach and who has the ability to successfully co-ordinate a project of this nature. The successful candidate must have access to a car and a willingness to work flexibly and on occasion, some unsociable hours. The position is based at Fir Park Stadium.

    To apply please send your CV with covering letter to:

    Motherwell Football Club Community Trust
    General Manager
    Fir Park Stadium
    Motherwell
    Lanarkshire
    ML1 2QN

    The closing date for applications is Friday 18th July 2014. Interviews will take place on Friday 25th July at Fir Park Stadium. If you have not been asked for interview by Wednesday 23rd July 2014, please assume that your application will not be taken any further.

    Regulated Work with Children and Protected Adults;

    This post is considered Regulated Work with Vulnerable Children and Protected Adults, under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act, 2007. Therefore, it is an offence to apply if you are barred from working with children or protected adults.

    Preferred candidates will be required to join the PVG Scheme, or undergo a PVG Scheme Update check, prior to a formal offer of employment being made by Motherwell Football Club Community Trust. Please note: Successful candidates will be expected to meet the cost of the relevant PVG check (£59 or £18), which will be deducted from your wages following the commencement of employment. For further information on the PVG Scheme please visit www.disclosurescotland.co.uk.

    For a full job description and person specification, please click here.

  • Archive

    Fulham visit this Saturday at 2pm

    Fulham visit Fir Park this Saturday at 2pm in what will be the first official pre-season friendly match of the summer.

    Stuart McCall’s men have taken part in numerous bounce games in preparation for the Europa League 2nd Qualifying Round against either Bangor City of Wales or Stjarnan of Iceland on Thursday week.

    The Cottagers, bossed by Felix Magarth, have former ‘Well defender Shaun Hutchinson in their ranks, who left last month after almost seven years in North Lanarkshire.

    The London club today also confirmed the signing of former Steelmen striker Ross McCormack from Leeds United for a reported £11 million, however, it is unknown if he will feature in the squad or match at the weekend.

    The Whites have other notable names in their squad such as Scott Parker, Moussa Dembélé and Hugo Rodallega and will be stiff opposition for the Fir Parkers.

    Kick off is 2pm

    Tickets for the match are available on the gate priced at:

    Adult:    £10
    Concession:                            £5
    • Concessions are listed as 15 and under, Over 60s and Full Time Students with a valid matriculation card.

    Picture: Fulham FC / Press Association

  • Archive

    Ramsden on the comeback trail

    Simon Ramsden is hoping to put his injury nightmare behind him and enjoy his best season yet at Fir Park.

    The experienced defender was having a fabulous season and was many fans’ pick for Player of the Year until an innocuous fall at Tynecastle last January incredibly ruled him out for the rest of campaign.

    It has been six months of frustration for the former Bradford City man as he watched his teammates secure a runners-up spot in the league.

    But he’s now back in full training and can’t wait for the new campaign to get started.

    After a grueling week of treble sessions in the Algarve, the 32-year old said: “I’ve been playing a little catch-up having been out since last January.

    “Hopefully I have a bit more luck that I did in the second half of last season. It was horrendous; I got hurt against Hearts and initially told I would be out for three weeks.

    [pullquote]Three operations later I was still out, so it was a bad time. There were complications with the first two ops. It was really frustrating to say the least, but thankfully now it feels great[/pullquote].

    “It’s hard when the lads are going training and I was doing the same things over and over again in the gym.

    “Towards the end of the season, Paul Lawson and Stuart Carswell were injured as well, so we could motivate one another and do circuits.

    “But when you are by yourself, it can be very lonely and depressing. You have to keep telling yourself you are doing it to get back to fitness. This is the last year of my contract at Motherwell and my aim is to build on the form I showed before I got injured.”

    Pictured showing off some of his unusual body artwork, Ramsden, a keen Sunderland fan, explain the tributes.

    “I have my dad tattooed on the right side of my chest. He goes to every game I play and I’m very close to him,” he said.

    “He is the biggest influence on my career. He is a social worker; he’s 66 and coming up for retirement but goes everywhere to watch me.

    “On the other side is my granddad, Bobby. He passed away three years ago, so it’s a tribute to him. Underneath I’ve got my little girl’s name, Bella.

    “I’ve got a Sunderland tattoo at the bottom of my back and another in an area you wouldn’t want to know about. If I said I got it whilst on my stag do last year, you will probably be able to figure out where it is!”

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    Bob wants the striker job

    Bob McHugh has begged boss Stuart McCall to give him the nod to be Motherwell’s goal-getter in the new season.

    With the departure of both James McFadden and Henri Anier, the Fir Park boss is in the market for more firepower, with former hero David Clarkson currently training with the squad in the Algarve.

    However, 22-year old McHugh is desperate to be given an extended run in the team to prove he can be the man to shoot ‘Well into more European and SPFL success.

    McHugh made his senior debut under Mark McGhee aged just sixteen, but despite seven years in and around the first-team, he has been unable to hold down a regular starting berth.

    However, the former Scotland Youth International admits this season is make-or-break for him at Fir Park.

    Speaking to the travelling press at Motherwell’s Portuguese training camp, McHugh said: “I hope this is going to be my season, especially with Faddy and Henri leaving, there’s a jersey up for grabs.

    “I’m looking to say to the manager, ‘I’m here and you don’t need to look anywhere else.’

    [pullquote]Obviously the manager will look to strengthen the squad with another striker but I want the chance to fill Faddy and Henri’s boots as I feel I could do a job for the team.[/pullquote]

    “My contract is up next summer and this is a huge season for me. I’d love to be at ‘Well beyond that so I know I need to perform. I feel I have the ability to play for this club and be successful but it’s up to the manager to give me a shot.

    “Then it’s up to me to deliver and to the business when he gives me the nod.”

    As McHugh is put through his paces in pre-season, the front man, who spent loan time at Queen of the South last season, is adamant this is the fittest he’s ever been.

    He said: “I scored goals when I was out on loan and I enjoyed playing every week. That’s what I’ve really needed in the last couple of seasons, a consistent run of games.

    “I have also worked hard over the summer. My fitness is the best it’s ever been and my body fat is right down to a low level and my diet has been great. I took just one week off then got back into it.

    “I’ve put the work in over the summer, worked right through and this is the best shape I’ve ever felt. I just wanted to come back to the club in the best possible shape, hit the ground running and really go for it.

    “Hopefully it will all have paid off and I will feature more in the first-team.”

    Keep up to date with additional information on our pre-season camp via Twitter and some behind-the-scenes pictures on Instagram. Action shots from training can also be found on our official Facebook page and videos are at our You Tube channel.

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    Player Sponsorship Opportunities

    There are still Home, Away and Euro sponsorship opportunities available for the 2014/15 season.

    With the arrival of Josh Law, Dan Twardzik, Henrik Ojamaa and Mark O’Brien, along with the emergence of some of our younger talent in to the first-team, this is your chance to own a piece of Motherwell history.

    As a sponsor, your name or company name will be listed in our matchday magazine and on the official club website – motherwellfc.co.uk.

    Your name will be highlighted at half-time by our PA announcer alongside that of your chosen player on a matchday if he is selected in the first-team; fantastic exposure for any small business or as a special gift to the ‘Well fan in your life!

    At the end of the campaign, you will be invited to the annual sponsor’s evening.

    Mix and mingle with Motherwell stars from the past and present before your chosen player joins you at your table for dinner and later, presents you with his jersey.

    The evening also includes a fabulous three-course meal, an intimate Q & A with the Management Team, as well as entertainment from Fir Park favourite, Tam Cowan.

    What’s still available for 2014/15?

    HOME (£295):

    • Kenny Black
    • Mark O’Brien
    • Ross Stewart

    AWAY (£275):

    • Mark O’Brien
    • Ross Stewart

    EUROPEAN (£350):

    • Mark O’Brien
    • Bob McHugh
    • Ross Stewart

    BOOTS / GLOVES (£350):

    • Stuart Carswell
    • Gunnar Nielsen
    • Mark O’Brien
    • Bob McHugh
    • Zaine Francis-Angol
    • Fraser Kerr
    • Adam Cummins
    • Ross Stewart

    UNDER 20s (£195*)

    • Dom Thomas
    • Steven Higgins
    • Morgyn Neill
    • Chris Cadden
    • Max Currie
    • Craig McCall
    • Liam Anderson
    • Dylan Mackin
    • Dannie McNulty
    • Robbie Leitch
    • Ben Hall
    • Luke Watt
    • Ross MacLean
    • Allan Campbell
    • Brett Long
    • Ryan Watters

    * The Under 20’s package is slightly different to that of the first-team detailed at the top of this page. Contact Diane at the numbers below for a full package breakdown.

    For more information or to sponsor a player please contact 01698 338008, email (including your contact telephone number) commercial@motherwellfc.co.uk.

  • Archive

    You Tube: Lasley talks pre-season

    Skipper Keith Lasley talked up the merits of pre-season trips as ‘Well reach the halfway point of their Algarve training camp.

    The Fir Parkers have gone away each of the last three seasons and every time it has given the side the best grounding possible ahead of both the European and SPFL action.

    The uninterrupted time away allows the management team to work intensively with the players, with treble sessions and team bonding helping to prepare the squad.

    And Lasley is in no doubt how big a part it has played in recent success and spoke of how difficult the schedule has been so far.

    [pullquote]The facilities are first class; having been here before we knew what we were coming out to. It’s a great place to work, it has everything the management team needs to work us and the weather pretty much guarantees you will always get the sessions you require.[/pullquote]

    Chatting to the official Motherwell You Tube channel, the 34-year old midfielder admitted: “It’s been tough but it always is at this time of year to be honest.

    “The facilities are first class; having been here before we knew what we were coming out to. It’s a great place to work, it has everything the management team needs to work us and the weather pretty much guarantees you will always get the sessions you require.

    “It has been a lot of hard work which will continue for the next few weeks. Pre-season is all about preparing for what will be another tough campaign ahead.

    “Being here in the Algarve is a perfect setting for us to do that. It has really paid off for us in previous years and hopefully it will do so again.”

    Keep up to date with additional information on our pre-season camp via Twitter and some behind-the-scenes pictures on Instagram. Action shots from training can also be found on our official Facebook page and videos are at our You Tube channel.