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[tab:Match report]

Motherwell hoped to bounce back after being on the receiving end at Celtic Park, but the effects of their midweek tie were evident as they struggled to match a lively St Johnstone.

Although the visitor’s had the bulk of the play especially in the first half, ‘Well sneaked the lead two minutes after the break through Chris Cadden. But Saints quickly equalised through Danny Swanson before Steven MacLean latched onto a lapse by Craig Samson to seal the win for the Perth side.

‘Well did create chances, and Allan Mannus had to pull off a couple of impressive saves, but it was a frustrating day at Fir Park.

Mark McGhee made one change from midweek, with Joe Chalmers taking the left back berth for the injured Stevie Hammell, Lionel Ainsworth, the match winner at Rugby Park, returned to the line-up starting through the middle supporting Scott McDonald.

Saints, after their midweek win over Hearts in the Betfred Cup were confident and the Perth men created the early chances.

Samson was not tested until the 22nd minute when he palmed Chris Millar’s drive from the edge of the box over the bar.

Although Motherwell looked leg weary they came closest to scoring just after the half hour mark. Craig Clay sent Marvin Johnson to the goal line and his ball across the face of goal found Lionel Ainsworth stretching at the back post to turn the ball into the side netting.

Just before half-time ‘Well had another chance when Richard Tait’s cross picked out Ainsworth in a packed box but his half volley was blocked by Brad McKay.

Two minutes after the break ‘Well nicked the lead. Richard Tait burst into the box and his great ball across goal took a deflection off Brad McKay. As the ball rolled free Chris Cadden raced in to slam the ball over the line for the teenager’s third goal of the season.

As Saints looked shattered ‘Well chased a second and within minutes Johnson tried his luck from 30 yards but he steered his drive wide of goal.

McDonald almost made it 2-0 but after Lionel Ainsworth’s shot was blocked, the Fir Park striker steered the loose ball narrowly past.

The Steelmen paid for that miss two minutes later when Saints equalised.

Danny Swanson cut into the box from the right before driving a left foot shot under Samson to make it 1-1.

The “Well ‘keeper then advanced from his line as Kane raced through unchallenged but he forced the Saints’ striker to squeeze the ball beyond his right hand post.

Chris Cadden then tried his luck for a second goal and watched as his well struck drive from 30 yards firm drive palmed over the bar by Mannus.

That was last action for the teenage midfielder as striker Jacob Blyth came on for 27 minutes to impress.

However it was Johnson who came closest to grabbing a winner for the home side, curling a right foot which was heading for the top corner until Mannus stretched high to his left to turn the ball over his bar.

Unfortunately, the winner came at the other end 16 minutes from time and it was a bit of a disaster for Craig Samson who produced so many outstanding saves at Parkhead in midweek.

Chris Kane’s 25 yard drive was well struck but it should have been comfortable for Samson. However, the ‘Well ‘keeper elected to palm the shot down allowing McLean to stoop and nod the bouncing ball over the line for a late and deserved winner for Saints.

[tab:As it happened]

 Alastair Reilly at Fir Park

FT: Motherwell 1 – 2 St Johnstone #MFCvSJFC

90′ | 1-1
Three minutes added on here at Fir Park.

89′ | 1-1
Dom Thomas fires a half-volley narrowly over the bar after Marvin Johnson’s deep cross fell to the midfielder.

87′ | 1-1
Sub – St Johnstone make their last change of the afternoon – Craig replaces Swanson.

81′ | 1-1
McDonald picks up a booking for a deliberate hand-ball. The forward turned the ball into the back of the net from Johnson’s cross

75′ | 1-1
Sub – Dom Thomas replaces Lionel Ainsworth with 15 minutes to go.

74′ | 1-2

Goal – Steven MacLean follows in to head in from 4 yards after Samson’s save came back out.

73′ | 1-1
Craig Clay picks up a booking for a late trip.

71′ | 1-1
Double sub: Paton replaces Millar, Wotherspoon replaces Alston for St Johnstone.

70′ | 1-1

Jacob Blyth flicks the ball on to Scott McDonald who cuts in and curls a beautiful strike on goal but Mannus tips over. So close!

bSub: Chris Cadden comes off for summer signing Jacob Blyth.

60′ | 1-1
Cadden forces a brilliant save from Mannus! The youngster strikes on target from 25-yards and the Saints keeper tips it over.

58′ | 1-1
Kane is slipped through on goal by Swanson and with just Samson to beat, drags his right-footed shot wide from ten yards.

55′ | 1-1
Goal – Swanson draws the visitors level after cutting in from the right onto his left foot to fire past Samson from close range.

53′ | 1-0
So close! A brilliant early ball from Tait is controlled by Ainsworth, the ball then falls to McDonald who strikes just wide.

50′ | 1-0
Marvin Johnson strikes wide from 25-yards. The Fir Parkers are playing with confidence here.

49′ | 1-0
Danny Swanson picks up a yellow for another late foul from the visitors.

48′ | 1-0
Tait crosses the ball across the face of goal where CADDEN is lurking to fire home!! 1-0 to the Steelmen!!

48′ | 1-0
Tait crosses the ball across the face of goal where CADDEN is lurking to fire home!! 1-0 to the Steelemen!!

GGOOOAAALLLL!!!

47′ | 0-0

Murray Davidson is given a stern warning from referee Euan Anderson after a late swipe on Chris Cadden.

46′ | 0-0

We’re back underway at Fir Park.

An even first 45 produces no goals so far…

HT: Motherwell 0 – 0 St Johnstone #MFCvSJFC

43′ | 0-0

Tait attempts another cross but it is blocked and goes out for a corner.

41′ | 0-0

Second booking of the afternoon, it’s St Johnstone’s Chris Kane for a wild tackle on Marvin Johnson.

40′ | 0-0

Tait involved immediately again as he puts in a brilliant cross to the feet of Ainsworth, whose strike from 8 yards is blocked

38′ | 0-0
Tait goes into the book for what looks to have been a shirt pull on Swanson.

35′ | 0-0

McManus finds himself on the ball near the opposing by-line, but his attempted cross is gathered by Mannus.

31′ | 0-0

Best chance of the game so far! Johnson beats his man and sends in a brilliant low cross, but McDonald hits wide on the stretch

30′ | 0-0

Marvin Johnson collects the ball out on the right and dribbles inside onto his left foot, but his strike deflects wide.

26′ | 0-0
The Steelmen win a corner now, but similarly to St Johnstone’s it is over-hit and cleared.

bThe following corner is wasteful, and Motherwell see it away.

24′ | 0-0

At the other end, Chris Millar forces a decent save from Samson, who pushes it over for a corner.

23′ | 0-0
Johnson sends in a vicious, low cross, but it is well held by Mannus in the Saints goal.

19′ | 0-0

MacLean is afforded too much time on the edge of the Motherwell box and he strikes low and hard towards goal, but it skips wide.

17′ | 0-0
Heneghan’s clearance crashes off McManus and flashes just past Samson’s post. Still not much in the way of chances so far though.

12′ | 0-0

Kane breaks through on goal but his soft effort is easily brought away from crossing the line by Heneghan.

11′ | 0-0
St Johnstone send in a cross after winning the throw-in, but Kane heads over.

10′ | 0-0
Both sides sharing short spells of possession but little in the way of chances so far.

5′ | 0-0
St Johnstone win a corner but head over, Motherwell break quickly but fail to test Mannus.

5′ | 0-0
St Johnstone win a corner but head over, motherwell break but fail to test Mannus.

Lasley gets the game underway. COYW!!!

St Johnstone subs: Clark, Wotherspoon, Paton, Gordon, Craig, Cummins, Comrie #MFCvSJFC

St Johnstone: Mannus, Alston, Anderson, Millar, Davidson, MacLean, Swanson, Shaughnessy, McKay, Easton, Kane #MFCvSJFC

[tab:Reaction]

Motherwell manager Mark McGhee:

[tab:Man-of-the-match]

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Ever wanted to get closer to your Claret and Amber heores? Well now you can with the launch of the new ‘Signing Zone’.

With the Ladbrokes Premiership home campaign kicking off at Fir Park against St Johnstone, why not arrive a little earlier and meet last season’s top goal scorer Louis Moult & legendary left-back Stevie Hammell as both players will be in The Well Shop’s ‘Signing Zone’ from 12.30pm until 1pm, to meet fans, sign autographs and pose for a selfie or two.

Each week, two different players will take their seats as the season progresses as part of the developing fan engagement programme here at Fir Park.

Share your pics on twitter @motherwellfc using #MFCSigningZone or facebook.com/motherwellfc

The club shop is situated at the Cooper stand and open from 9.30am.

Summer signing Craig Clay admits that games like Wednesday night are part of the appeal of Scottish football – but the result was hard to take.

The midfielder started against Celtic at Parkhead in the Betfred cup on the day he signed for the Steelmen.

And while it wasn’t the best way to mark his big day, the Englishman admitted that playing in the top flight of Scottish football was an appeal to him.

Speaking about the match, the 24-year-old said: “In a way it was a good way to start because you want to play against clubs like that on pitches like that and against players like that, so on that side of things it was a good start but obviously the result wasn’t.”

[pullquote]I’m just delighted to have finally got it sorted and I can settle down now and give my football 100%.[/pullquote]

He added: “The level up here in Scotland is extremely high and Celtic are by far and away the best team I’ve ever played against.”

And Clay is feeling upbeat for the season ahead after securing a deal with the club.

He said: “Being here for a few weeks on trial was always going to be difficult in a sense because my future’s on the line – but I’m just delighted to have finally got it sorted and I can settle down now and give my football 100%.”

Mark McGhee’s men host St Johnstone in the first Ladbrokes Premiership home match of the 2016/17 season.

And following a 2-1 win away to Kilmarnock last weekend, the ‘Well will be hoping to add to their solid start.

But it won’t be easy, following a heavy defeat at the hands of Celtic on Wednesday night and considering visitors St Johnstone’s recent form.

For the players and coaching staff of Motherwell, bouncing back from disappointments like Wednesday’s is an important challenge.

But the manager and players feel confident that tomorrow afternoon will provide the platform needed to do so.

St Johnstone come into the match on the back of a 3-2 win over Hearts in the Betfred Cup, where a late winner sent the Saints into the quarterfinals.

Manager Tommy Wright will be delighted with his sides start, but may have slight concerns after their goalless draw at home to Aberdeen last weekend.

While a point against last seasons runners-up is an important one, the concern will be that his side failed to score against a side that they enjoyed much success against in front of goal last season: bagging 12 in just four games.

With last season’s fourth placed side travelling to Fir Park to face the Steelmen, who finished in fifth, it makes for an interesting fixture.

New signing Craig Clay may have been with the Fir Parkers for a few weeks now, but after putting pen to paper on a two-year deal this week, he will be hoping to put in a solid performance in his first home match since signing that hard earned contract.

The 24-year-old has featured in the Betfred cup as well as the league opener against Killie last weekend – where he nearly found the back of the net if it weren’t for the incredible reflexes of Jamie McDonald.

Against tomorrow’s opponents, who have proven to be tough to break down, a player like Clay in the middle of the park will hugely important in what will likely be another hard-fought league match.

Speaking to MFC TV earlier this week, the Englishman said: “I’m over the moon, I’ve been here for a few weeks but obviously when you’re on trial and your future’s on the line it’s a bit nerve-racking. Luckily the manager took a shine to me and I’ve been offered a contract and I’m delighted.”

He added: “It’s a big chance for me, it’s a massive club and I can’t wait for Saturday’s game against St Johnstone.”

‘Well boss Mark McGhee added: “We’re delighted to get Craig signed up and I think he’s been excellent over the last few weeks. He works hard, he’s an attacking threat from midfield and he’s hugely popular amongst the squad.

“The way he’s backed himself is first class and he’s the type of player teammates love as he’ll run through brick walls for the cause. We now have some strong competition in the middle of the park, which is healthy.”

After a solid 2015/16 season, St Johnstone have started this campaign on a similar note, and will arrive at Fir Park today full of confidence.

Topping Group B in the Betfred cup and progressing to the quarter-finals as well as registering a hard-fought draw against Aberdeen last weekend, the Saints will be feeling positive with the start they’ve made.

For manager Tommy Wright, it was going to be a busy summer as he looked to retain his stars and build on an already strong squad.

With minimal departures from McDiarmid Park and the arrival of midfielder Paul Paton, the Saints look like they have had a decent summer window.

Arriving from Dundee United on a free transfer, the 29-year-old will bring stability to the middle of the park.

But one of the main challenges of the club will be ensuring the midfielder can stay fit, after he missed a number of games through injury last season.

Away from the treatment table though, Paton could prove to be a valuable addition to the squad.

As could right-back Keith Watson, who impressed in the Championship last season and signed on a free from St Mirren.

The 26-year-old scored on four occasions and put in a solid performance in the League Cup against Elgin, when he played the entire 90 minutes.

One of the most exciting additions is the arrival of midfielder Blair Alston, who signed from Falkirk after spending five years with the Bairns.

Last season saw the now 24-year-old bag 11 goals and 12 assists in all competitions, catching the attention of Tommy Wright and the St Johnstone scouting team, and will push for a starting spot this term.

But one of the familiar faces around McDiarmid Park is MacLean, who will be just as important as any of the new arrivals.

The 33-year-old was the Saints top scorer last season with 14 league strikes. In just three appearances in the Betfred Cup, the veteran has bagged 2 goals and notched three assists already as he continues to be Tommy Wright’s man

Last time out, the Saints registered a 3-2 win against Hearts.

But in the league, a 0-0 draw with last season’s runners-up Aberdeen proved to be a good result.

Tommy Wright may have concerns though, with his side failing to score despite bagging 12 in their four clashes last term.

They nearly continued that trend with their first attack on Saturday though, as Cummins almost steered Brian Easton’s shot past the keeper.

Aberdeen dominated possession, but it was the hosts who went closest to breaking the deadlock when Anthony O’Connor’s clearance landed kindly at the feet of Swanson who struck a shot towards the corner, only to be denied by the quick reactions of Dons stopper Lewis.

Poor defending handed another gilt-edged chance to Cummins inside the six-yard box, but, with the goal gaping, he miss-kicked and Lewis was able to save.

After the performance, Tommy Wright said: “I think any point against Aberdeen is always a good point.

“They’ve proved they’re a top side and they put us under a lot of pressure and we dealt with that well; quite a few teams in this league may have crumbled.

“We’re pleased with the defensive performance but maybe we could have done more in an attacking sense.”

Sophie Gallacher has been busy in recent weeks, not only netting goals for Motherwell Ladies but also representing her country in the Homeless World Cup.

You may have seen it on your screens this summer, the Homeless World Cup was held in Glasgow in George Square, which was completely transformed for the occasion.

A truly inspiring week long event, each participant from countries all over the world, with their own story to tell. Sophie looks back at her HWC experience and forward to the second half of the season as Motherwell go into the second half this weekend sitting top spot.

Full name: Sophie Gallacher

Nickname(s): Soph, Big yin and Sutton (thanks Amanda Burns)

D.O.B:  20/06/1996

Preferred position: Striker

What age did you start playing football? I first started at the age of 7

How did you first get into the game?

It was a neighbour up the street who had his own team but I was slightly too young. Unfortunately I was too young, but I was so desperate to play he pretended I was 8, older than I was, just so I was able to play. Top man.

Previous clubs:  Mostly boys clubs to be honest. Then around age 14/15 I played for St. Andrews girls and then moved onto Port Glasgow Girls Club until I was 17. After that I moved to Motherwell and have been here ever since.

Favourite female player: All my amazing team mates at Motherwell LFC

Favourite male player: Henrik Larsson

Most influential coach: Billy Gillan

You have been at the club a few seasons now Sophie, it’s great to finally get the chance to get a chat. What was it that first attracted you to join Well Ladies?

I heard they were starting a Senior Team and someone got in touch with me and asked me to head up for a trial. I decided to give it a go so I went up for a few training sessions and really enjoyed it. 3 years later and I’m still here.

You have played the beautiful game for many years and yet still so young. What is it that has you hooked?

I just love playing Football. It’s given me routine I need in my life for so long now. I would be lost without it if I’m honest and genuinely believe Football is an escape for me and many other people, that’s why it’s just so invaluable.

Primarily you are a striker, what qualities do you think are required when playing up top?

Yeah Striker is the position for me. I was played on the left or right wing before I came to Motherwell, but I definitely like playing a strikers role.  I think to be strong and have a good finish and a want to get on the ball is so important. I know the role well but even now I am continuing to learn more about it every game I play.

Describe the best goal you have ever scored and why was it so special?

It has to be the goal I scored against Kilmarnock very recently in the last game of the first half of the season, before the break.  I even celebrated the goal for the first time ever! I’m not usually one for celebrations but this goal meant a lot to me. It’s not every game I score a top corner so I just reacted through excitement! It was a really great team victory that day, we played so well against a competitive side. To finish top of the table going into the break was our target so we were really happy. Those last few games leading up to the break were really great for us. Difficult opposition but the girls were on form.

I’ve been so excited to ask you questions and find out a little bit more about just how you represented Scotland in a World Cup Competition no less. How did you feel when you were selected to be part of the Women’s squad that would represent Scotland at the Homeless World Cup held recently in George Square?

I just can’t even explain to you what it was like, I would be here for hours trying. Unless you are involved in it as a player or coach it would be so difficult to understand fully. It was just so unreal but when the assistant coach Jodie phoned me one day and told me I was in the team, I just laughed – I didn’t know what to say. I just said thank you! I had butterflies everyday leading up to the event but we all stuck together and helped each other to prepare for it which definitely showed on the park.

What was it like stepping out in front of the crowd for the first time representing the home nation?

It was so nerve wracking – I was definitely very emotional. I was so excited seeing my family and friends who came down to support me and catching a glimpse of them in the stands when we were about to play was something special. It was brilliant for all of us hearing the home crowd chanting support for us. Singing the national anthem, every time, gave me butterflies. The whole thing was just such a positive experience.

You were highly thought of by the Homeless World Cup commentators for your ability to strike a ball and score goals, in fact I think you were in the running for goal of the tournament! Tell us more.

I was known as big number 5. I don’t think people expected what they saw from us as a team if I’m honest, but when they saw what we had to offer I think heads started to turn. We didn’t let that get in our way though and soon everyone began to think highly of us. Goal of the tournament? I never thought I would be in for that. If I’m honest I didn’t even think that shot was going in but we were a few goals up in that game so when Karen played that great lifted ball over the top, I just thought I would have a go on the volley and fortunately it hit the top corner.

You have made some amazing friends, each with their own story to tell, was it easy getting to know your new team mates in preparation for the tournament?

Absolutely, I am so happy to have met these guys and they are definitely now friends for life! We were such a tight group of girls right from the start, and still now even after the event.  To have experienced a life changing event with some of the best people I’ve met and will ever meet likely, is incredible. I’m quite a shy character so at the beginning I was nervous but I shouldn’t have been, they are all such easy people and with that, so easy to get along with. The coaching staff too, amazing people – getting to know these guys has been amazing and such a huge thing for me.

Your Motherwell LFC team mates, centre Mid Mandy Burns and twin sister Tracy (right back) were your HWC team Manager and Coach, is that correct? 

Yeah that’s right, Jodie McEwen who was a player in last year’s tournament was our assistant coach this year also.

Both Mandy and Tracy are very talented and experienced players themselves. It must have been a dream to have them at the helm of the HWC Scotland Women’s team?

Yeah it was massive for us to have them in charge. I’d say to have such good experience behind us and them being great role models too was really important for us. Jodie and Sarah who played in last year’s squad came along to some of our training sessions as well and shared their own experiences. This meant so much to everyone and inspired us all. Another two great role models. To have such a solid coaching staff that didn’t give up on us was amazing. We learned from all of them which played a massive part in our success and progress in the event. If it’s ok, I would like to take this opportunity on behalf of all the girls to say thanks to them for all their hard work, patience and efforts, thanks ladies.

I know you will be sad it’s all over, but you and your teammates should be incredibly proud of getting down to the final four teams, not only are all your Motherwell team mates very proud of you – but the whole of Scotland is very proud of you and your team.

I’m really sad it’s all over now. I can’t even explain it but I am so proud of how far we got in the tournament. To make history in George Square in front of the home support was amazing. Having the Motherwell Ladies team down to support at different times throughout the week was also massive for me and the rest of the girls. It’s more that they are role models for us and I hope they know how much it meant them being there. I will always remember our Motherwell captain, Staceo saying to me: “When you feel like giving up, you will have at least another 10 minutes in you so keep going” and I took that on to the pitch with me. Of course I couldn’t have had a better crowd than the Scottish crowd we had supporting us the full week.

What was your favourite memory from the tournament? 

The whole event is a lifelong memory I will always have, but I think getting through to the semi final was just the most amazing feeling. We were all so buzzing when we heard the crowd singing ‘Scotland’s on fire’ it was all I could hear. I never in my life thought a football event could make me as emotional as it did. It was something I will never ever forget.

Has being part of something so special inspired you to get those shooting boots on in the second half of the competitive season?

It definitely has – I learned so much from being part of the HWC and it’s given me so much more confidence and helped build my self-esteem so I will take that back into the season with me as a huge positive.

Motherwell ladies had an outstanding season last year Sophie. League and League cup success and down to the last eight in the Scottish cup. This season hasn’t been too bad either, albeit Scottish cup and league cup disappointment but at the halfway point sitting top of the league is fantastic. What do you think is the secret to the ladies past successes?

The vast experience we all share in the squad is massive for us but I think more importantly, just the drive and desire we have to win the fight for each other is key.

What are your hopes for Well Ladies during the remainder of the 2016 season?

My hope is the same as everyone else. We had two disappointing results this season, one in the league cup and one in the Scottish Cup. We now go on and rectify those mistakes by winning the league. My hope is that we continue to play now as we did going into the break, to play well under our new manager and make this league ours.

You are a busy lady and travel a fair distance to attend training and games at Motherwell. Is it difficult to juggle the commitments of your own life with training and playing games for your club? 

Yes it can be difficult but I wouldn’t change it for anything. I love it and am used to the routine now. Football is a commitment in life I have always had and I’m happy I’m committed to Motherwell Ladies.

You must be excited to get your boots on and get back out there for the second half of the season. How do you prepare yourself for each game and what targets do you set yourself?

Definitely, I can’t wait for the season to go again – not long now. Preparation for me is just to eat and drink well, particularly prior to a game. I try to relax as much as I can before game days and my personal target is always to be better than the last game I played.
What do you enjoy the most about being part of the team here at Motherwell Ladies? 

Playing alongside the girls each week and of course the good banter.  Also playing alongside so many talented and experienced players who have played at the top level for so long, means I am able to learn so much at a young age which is a positive for me and something I can take into the future.

Sophie it’s been an absolute privilege speaking to you about your career so far and hearing all your amazing stories about being part of the Homeless World Cup this year. I wish you all the best in the future and I know we are all excited to see you score plenty of those special goals in the second half of the season. 

Thank you Dibsy, it’s been great to share my experiences with you and the Motherwell Family.

Follow Sophie on twitter @sophiegallache1

Follow Motherwell Ladies on twitter @MotherwellLFC

Follow me on twitter @dibsy_

‘Well boss Mark McGhee believes that his side can focus on the prospect of going to the top the table to give them a push this weekend.

The  Steelmen host St Johnstone in the Ladbrokes Premiership and McGhee’s men will be looking to follow on from their 2-1 win against Kilmarnock in the opening game.

And the manager also believes that the midweek loss to Celtic will have no bearing on tomorrow’s match.

Speaking to the press, he said: “There’s no chance that Wednesday nights result will have a damaging affect on tomorrow’s game.

[pullquote]There’s no chance that Wednesday nights result will have a damaging affect on tomorrow’s game.[/pullquote]

“I set my stall out before a ball was kicked and we talked about the season ahead –and one of the things that I said was that last season when we got beat by Hearts badly and then Celtic at the end of the season is that these things can happen.”

He added: “We’re realistic and we know we can lose a game but we always know we can go in to the next game and win it.

“Four players in our squad had never played at Parkhead before so that was a great experience for them to play against players of that level.”

McGhee believes it will be another tough game for the Fir Parkers, who face a strong Saints team.

[pullquote]It’s possible that we could be sitting top of the league come Saturday night so we’ve got something to play for.[/pullquote]

He said: “St Johnstone got a fantastic result on Wednesday night and they started the season strongly with a draw against Aberdeen too.

“They beat us here last time we played and we’ve found them a difficult team to play against.

“It’s possible that we could be sitting top of the league come Saturday night so we’ve got something to play for.”

On the injury to midfielder Carl McHugh, the manager added: “Carl actually showed one or two signs of being a little bit concussed which he didn’t show at first but come Wednesday he was feeling it.”

Referee for Saturday’s Ladbrokes Premiership clash with St Johnstone is Euan Anderson.

Anderson, 33, will be handling his first Motherwell match of the new season but took charge on three occasions last term.

The first was a vital 3-1 home win over Dundee back in December, when goals from McDonald, Moult and Pearson gave McGhee’s men all three points.

The second was a month later, when Motherwell again won at home, this time the comfortable 5-0 victory over Cove Rangers in the Fourth Round of the William Hill Scottish Cup.

The third and final match was the Fir Parkers final league game away to Celtic, which ended in a 7-0 defeat.

The Dumbarton-based whistler was promoted to category one in the summer of 2011 and has taken charge of three Motherwell matches in the past, the first coming in the Scottish Cup fourth round defeat to Albion Rovers at New Douglas Park on November 2013 where a first goal of the season for Albion’s Gary Phillips ensured the Coatbridge outfit’s qualification to the next round of the cup.

He was also in charge of Motherwell’s 2-1 win away to Kilmarnock in 2014/15 season where goals from Stephen Pearson and Lee Erwin secured three points for Well’ on this occasion with an Anthony Straker own-goal being the only blotch to the copybook on that day.

The win was part of a three match win streak that Well’ put together on the backend of last season, commencing with a 4-0 victory over Hamilton and a 5-0 victory over St Mirren to bookend the Kilmarnock fixture.

Euan will be assisted by Gavin Harris and Andy Milne with Bobby Madden on fourth official duties.

Action images from today’s 5-0 loss to Celtic in the Betfred Cup.

Snaps courtesy of SNSPix

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‘Well boss Mark McGhee admits his players need to learn from the 5-0 defeat at Parkhead in the Betfred cup tonight.

After progressing from Group F, the Steelmen drew favourites Celtic in the second round.

Speaking to MFC TV following the defeat, the Motherwell boss said: “We maybe didn’t come here expecting to win but we expected to do well and make it more difficult for them than we did.

“But in saying that, they were in excellent form tonight – the two wide players and Rogic especially – and we couldn’t handle their pace, we couldn’t handle their movement and we ended up losing the game badly.”

He added: “More important to me would be our own performance against that, and we can do better.

[pullquote]We maybe didn’t come here expecting to win but we expected to do well and make it more difficult for them than we did.[/pullquote]

“We didn’t keep the ball as well as I think we’re capable of doing, even under the sort of pressure they put us under.

“Generally I think we underperformed but they played very, very well tonight and I don’t think for a minute that will be the last time that a side loses five goals at Parkhead this season.”

Looking ahead to Saturday’s league game against St Johnstone at Fir Park, McGhee insisted that his side need to focus and bounce back.

He said: “We have to discount this result entirely and go in to Saturday’s game still believing that we have good players and we’re a decent team – there was nobody out there who wasn’t trying tonight and I know these boys all have fantastic attitudes to bounce back.”

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 Phil McGhee at Celtic Park

Motherwell crashed out of the Betfred Cup with a painful 5-0 defeat at the home of Premiership Champions Celtic.

The Steelmen were aiming to improve dramatically from their last visit to Celtic Park on the final day of last season when they were hammered 7-0.

And although the scoreline reflected another handsome win for the Parkhead men, in truth had it not been for a handful of wonderful saves from Craig Samson, ‘Well’s exit from the Betfred cup would have been a lot more severe.

However, on the day that the Fir Park club signed free agent Craig Clay on a permanent contract, Celtic’s multimillion pound signings, and in particular Moussa Dembele and Scott Sinclair showed the gulf in resources both off and on the park.

Mark McGhee made two changes from the side that won at Rugby Park on Saturday. Keith Lasley returning at the expense injured Carl McHugh, with Joe Chalmers’ starting wide left in a back five, charged with the responsibility of tracking his former team-mate James Forrest.

For almost 20 minutes the Fir Park men contained the home side to a couple of tame shots which caused little concern for Samson. In the 16th minute the ‘Well stopper was required to make the first of some key saves when he dived full length to push away Sinclair’s curling shot.

Three minutes later, though, Samson was helpless as Celtic made the breakthrough. Callum McGregor found the unmarked Tom Rogic who took a touch before swivelling and lashing the ball high into the net from 10 yards.

Motherwell came close to an immediate reply when Scott McDonald nodded Marvin Johnson’s cross back for Craig Clay but he screwed his shot across goal and beyond the post.

The ‘Well goal had a amazing escape after 28 minutes as Samson made a remarkable double save to deny Rogic, with Moussa Dembele rattling the ball off the crossbar in between.

As the Steelmen failed to match Celtic’s speed of thought and movement Rogic found space to have another crack at goal which Samson was again at full stretch to push away.

Just when ‘Well looked to have survived the onslaught Celtic were gifted a soft penalty. Richard Tait was too close on the hot heels of Sinclair as they raced into the box and Dembele calmly lifted the resultant spot kick past the diving Samson to make it 2-0.

Samson was then the hero with a wonderful triple save to deny Sinclair and Rogic in quick succession as Celtic threatened to ram home their advantage.

Amazingly, having been fortunate to be only two behind, Motherwell came close to grabbing a couple of goals before the break.

Four minutes from half-time Clay slipped the ball through to Johnson who turned at the corner of the box before bending a shot beyond the diving Craig Gordon and narrowly past the post.

Three minutes later the Parkhead ‘keeper reacted smartly to get down and smother the ball on his line as Johnson’s cross took a flick off Ben Heneghen inside the six yard box.

Motherwell’s towering central defender came close again within a minute of the restart when he climbed highest in a packed Celtic box to power Chalmer’s corner down but wide of the back post.

With Lionel Ainsworth on for Hammell Motherwell appeared to have regained some confidence but very quickly Samson was in the thick of it with a couple of smart saves from Sinclair and Scott Brown.

Johnson dragged a shot across the face of the home goal and after a neat exchange with Chris Cadden, Scott McDonald fired his shot over the bar as ‘Well looked for a goal to get themselves back into the tie.

However, a double inside three minutes from Sinclair and Dembelle killed off ‘Well’s chances of a fightback and interest in the League Cup.

Celtic rounded off the scoring when Samson did well to parry Forrest’s angled drive but the ‘keeper was helpless as Rogic rolled the loose ball over the line and complete Motherwell’s misery.

In the final minute McDonald summed up ‘Well’s night when he screwed the ball past the post from four yards after Gordon could only palm out Johnson’s stinging drive – the striker’s blushes only slightly reduced by the assistant’s raised flag for offside.

[tab:As it happened]

 Lewis Irons at Celtic Park

FULL TIME | Celtic 5 – 0 Motherwell #CFCvMFC

81′ | 5-0
Celtic make their final change, Janko off for Ralston.

76′ | 5-0
Goal – Rogic gets his second of the game, following in a Samson save and poking into the net.

72′ | 4-0
Celtic make a second change, Brown off for Henderson

68′ | 4-0
Celtic sub, Lustig off for McCart.

64′ | 4-0
Goal – Dembele gets another, and again he’s not had to work hard for it. 4-0.

61′ | 3-0
Goal – Sinclair cuts in from the left all too easily and picks his spot past Samson. 3-0 to Celtic.

56′ | 2-0
Clay slides in Johnson who puts on the burners but it’s too narrow an angle to trouble Gordon and goes out for a goal kick

52′ | 2-0
Too close for comfort as Dembele turns Heneghan inside the box and hooks his shot just over the bar.

48′ | 2-0
Up the other end, Dembele drills one from just inside the box but Samson makes the save

46′ | 2-0
Early chance as Heneghan rises to meet a corner but nods just past the post.

Second half underway…

Half time sub, Ainsworth on for Hammell….

HALF TIME’ | Celtic 2 – 0 Motherwell

43′ | 2-0
Half chance there for ‘Well as Johnson’s cross is scuffed goalwards but Gordon anticipates it and gets down to make the stop.

40′ | 2-0
Close!! Clay thread in Johnson who curls his shot inches past the post!

38′ | 2-0
Desperate defending there from ‘Well! Sinclair is slid in but Samson is again to the rescue, saving from Sinclair then Rogic!

33′ | 2-0
Goal – Dembele sends Samson the wrong way to put Celtic 2-0 up.

33′ | 1-0
Celtic have a penalty…

31′ | 1-0
Samson is a busy man and is again called into action, diving to his right to put Rogic’s shot past the post.

30′ | 1-0
Good play from Chalmers to break away from Janko, he clips the ball over to McDonald but ref says the Aussie fouled his man

27′ | 1-0
A let off! Rogic’s shot is well saved by Sammy then Dembele strikes the bar and again Rogic has a shot which is turned wide!

22′ | 1-0]
Chance! Loose ball is volleyed by Clay from 18 yards but it’s wide of the post!

19′ | 1-0
Goal – Rogic opens the scoring for Celtic, latching onto McGregor’s clipped ball and firing well beyond Samson.

16′ | 0-0
Sinclair cuts in of the left and fires at goal but again Samson is equal to it, palming it away to safety.

11′ | 0-0
‘Well sat in pretty deep but Celtic work some space allowing McGregor to get a shot away but it’s saved by Samson.

4′ | 0-0
Celtic with the first chance. Dembele with the effort after a mazy run from Sinclair. Easily dealt with by Samson though.

Celtic get the game underway. COYW!!!

Both sides emerge from the tunnel, ‘Well in their denim blue away kit. COYW!!

[tab:Reaction]

Motherwell manager Mark McGhee:

“I don’t think for a minute that that will be the worst result for a team here this season,” said the Well manager. When they get going like that and their finishing is a little bit better it could be more.

“Our goalkeeper played particularly well. There will be a day when a team’s goalkeeper doesn’t play that well and it will be more.

“They do have to keep these players fit. That is an aspect of it. And these players have to keep that form going. We can take things from it in that young players like Cadden and Marvin Johnson can see how their strikers went about their game and aspire to that.

Celtic  Manager  Brendan Rogers:

Coming Soon…

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