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Under 20s boss Stephen Craigan gives his thoughts after today’s 3-1 defeat to St Johnstone U20s.

An young ‘Well U20s lost their first match in over a month when they crashed to defeat at the hands of an experienced St Johnstone.

The Steelmen, who didn’t name an overage player in the side, came up against a Saints team with five, including the likes of Brian Easton, Craig Thomson and Scott Brown.

In spite of that, it was ‘Well who were ahead at the interval when David Turnbull scored a super strike from distance after a patient passing move from the visitors.

However, the experience of the hosts shone through in the second half and Easton and Thomson both netted to get their side in front, before sub Greg Page headed home a late third.

Stephen Craigan made three changes to the side that beat Ross County last Sunday. David Ferguson and Dom Thomas were unavailable and Allan Campbell took a knock at training yesterday; Adam Livingstone, Jake Hastie and a trialist front man were included as replacements.

And the youngsters almost took the lead within four minutes. A ball into Mackin was well controlled, and when his pass took a fortuitous flick off the trialist striker, it fell kindly for Hastie. He took a touch and drove towards goal, but his shot came crashing back off the post.

Shortly after, the trialist striker and Robbie Leitch combined, with the latter eventually hanging up a cross towards the back post which Mackin got to, but could only direct his header just over the bar.

It took Saints ten minutes to really register an effort at goal when Thomson’s cross from the right found Greg Hurst in the area, but his header bounced wide of target.

Then, shortly after, the same two players combined to create a chance Saints should have profited from. Thomson’s low, bouncing cross was perfect for Hurst but with the goal at his mercy, he somehow screwed it wide.

Thomson had a shot of his own at one end before Leitch had a chance for the Steelmen, but could only drill a shot into the ground, taking the sting off it.

However, out of almost nothing, ‘Well scored one of the goals of the season. A 14-touch passing move, involving six different players all across the pitch, eventually concluded with Leitch and the trialist striker combining to tee up David Turnbull, who smashed home a dart of a strike into the top corner from 25 yards.

Saints went close to a quick-fire leveller when Hurst was afforded too much space inside the area, but his low shot was well held by Brett Long.

With the Fir Parkers going in level at the break, Stephen Craigan’s message would have been to keep it tight for the opening ten minutes of the second half, but within seconds the score was level.

To be fair, it was an equaliser of some quality from Brian Easton, who curled home a peach of a free kick from almost the same spot Turnbull had netted, leaving Long absolutely no chance.

‘Well had a opportunity to get back in front almost instantly, when Leitch set-up Mackin on the edge, but his spin and hit was straight at Ben McKenzie who saved easily.

It was to prove a crucial block as with their next attack, Saints got in front. A ball into the box was headed back across goal by Liam Gordon and although ‘Well had two chances to clear it, the ball eventually landed at the feet of Thomson who took a touch before lashing high into the net.

‘Well continued to plug away and long-range hits from both Hastie and Turnbull failed to trouble McKenzie. However, they were punished with their third set piece of the match when sub Greg Page rose to convert a corner after fellow sub Daniel Jardine had brought out a good save from Long.

The Steelmen didn’t give up and were impressive in possession throughout. They may have reduced the arrears in the last few minutes when a positive spin and run from Hastie opened up space for the sixteen-year old, but he could only curl wide.

It was a defeat, the first in seven for the young Fir Parkers, but Stephen Craigan will have seen more than enough from his young troops to continue to be optimistic of a bright future.

Motherwell: Long, McMillan, Livingstone, Maguire, Watt, MacLean, Trialist (Falconer – 64mins), Turnbull, Mackin, Hastie, R.Leitch (J.Moore – 76mins)

Subs Not Used: Morrison

Following the SPFL statement dated 8th February 2016, Motherwell Football Club has today released the following update.

“Motherwell Football Club notes the decision of the SPFL Commission in relation to the Premiership / Championship Playoff 2nd Leg on May 31st 2015.

The club robustly defended itself during the lengthy process and, at its conclusion, agreed to take forward the various action points set out in the decision.

Although much of what is required of the club by the commission is being addressed by the club, it is important to emphasise the role of our supporters in helping meet the requirements of the commission.

While the club acknowledges that the end of season pitch incursions at Fir Park, by predominantly young supporters, have almost always been celebratory and without malice, incursions themselves are considered to be ‘unacceptable conduct’ and may give rise to further disorder.

In particular, the incursion on 31st May 2015 was found to be disorderly by the commission.

It is clear that the league will no longer accept these incursions and the club could face extremely serious sanctions should there be a repeat.

It is absolutely paramount that no fan enters the pitch or trackside area at any game in future, either at Fir Park or elsewhere. Should this instruction be ignored, the club will reluctantly be left with no other option but to take appropriate action against those concerned, which may include a significant ban from the stadium.

Motherwell Football Club is immensely proud of its supporters and appreciates every single fan that follows the club each and every week. We would ask supporters take heed of the message and work with us to ensure no further issues or problems.

In return, the club will continue to work hard for supporter’s rights and the often valid concerns that are frequently raised in response.”

‘Main is in trouble, there’s Steve Kirk….the super-sub has done it again!’

Those iconic words from the ’91 Cup Final live long in the memory and as all ‘Well fans know – Wednesday 18th May is the 25th anniversary of Motherwell FC winning the Scottish Cup.

To mark this milestone in the Club’s history, there are a series of events planned to bring together the team from ’91, the fans, backroom staff and all those from a generation who remember the 1990/91 cup run and the final itself.

The major function in the calendar is our black tie dinner, which will be held at the Bothwell Bridge Hotel on Sunday 8th May. This gala dinner will mark the Cup win anniversary with guests paying tribute to the team, the manager and those who played a key role in the Club at that exciting time.

There is a Q&A evening planned for Thursday 24th March, where fans can get the chance to quiz some of the winning team in what it was like to play for Motherwell, what it’s like to life the Cup and become a legend in our 130th year.

Finally, on the anniversary of the game we will be showing a DVD re-run of the final here at Fir Park. Attending will be many of the players who gave their all that day in Claret and Amber; where supporters can re-live the occasion or join in for the first time and pay tribute to their heroes.

There are other events planned, including the release of a commemorative DVD with brand new interviews and other content, anniversary lamb-wool scarf, golf day with the legends and some yet to be confirmed community based activity.

We will also be looking to gather your thoughts, memories and memorabilia building a wealth of emotion from ’91 which will be shared among all Motherwell fans.

More information on the events follows…

On Sunday 8th May, join the ’91 team, backroom staff and key Club personnel for a celebration dinner at the Bothwell Bridge hotel.

Our host, Tam Cowan will guide us through the evening, conducting a ’91 team Q&A, a raffle and fantastic auction. The evening rounds off with some light-hearted words from our guest speaker before carriages are called at midnight.

The night promises to be most memorable, with nostalgia being central to it’s theme.

We hope you can join us!

• Four course meal, with two complimentary bottles of red & white wine on the table

• Tickets priced at £60 each or £600 for table of 10

• Mixed tables for bookings less than 10

• Places must be bought via the Club on 01698 333333 or www.motherwellbuyonline.co.uk

• Rooms can be reserved directly with the hotel, by calling 01698 852246

with guests from the ’91 cup winning team

Take your seat, wet your whistle and be primed to ask your heroes the questions you’ve always wanted to ask them at our intimate night with representatives from ’91 cup winning team and also Mark McGhee’s first XI.

We will also be opening the stadium tunnel that evening for those who wish to view their ceramic tiled messages, which adorn the walls of this private and exclusive area of Fir Park.

• Thursday 24th March

• Centenary Suite, Fir Park, 7pm – 730pm start

• £10 entry

• Free pint on arrival and pie at Half-time

• Places can be bought via the Club on 01698 333333 or www.motherwellbuyonline.co.uk

On the 25th anniversary of the famous Cup win against Dundee United, join us at Fir Park to watch over the game, hear commentary from those central to the match and cheer on Stevie Kirk’s bullet header during extra-time.

• Wednesday 18th May

• Cooper Suite, Fir Park, 7pm – 745pm kick off

• £10 entry

• Free pint on arrival and pie at Half-Time

• Places can be bought via the Club on 01698 333333 or www.motherwellbuyonline.co.uk

On Friday 18^th March & Friday 8^th April, we have a limited number of places for you to join the first team for lunch – a most memorable experience for all supporters. 

You’ll enjoy the same meal as the players, freshly prepared by our in-house Chef with your day culminating in a memorable behind the scenes, access all areas tour of Fir Park, a fantastic trip down memory lane where you will learn all about the Club’s history.

During lunch you’ll have the opportunity to meet the players, have your picture taken with them and autograph any of your Motherwell FC memorabilia.

If you’re a season ticket holder or a member of The Well Society, places are available at £24.95 for adults and £14.95 for Juveniles with a family ticket priced at £34.95

Regular adult places are priced at £29.95 and £19.95 for a juvenile or a family ticket at £39.95

Arrival on the day is from 12pm at the Centenary Suite, here at Fir Park.

To book your place, either call or buy online.

01698 333333 | www.motherwellbuyonline.co.uk

Motherwell FC can today announce the resignation of Derek Weir from the club’s Board of Directors.

A lifelong fan, Derek has served and played an active part on the Board for almost six years.

Derek has also been a director of the Scottish Premier League (SPL) and is the current Chairman of the MFC Community Trust.

[pullquote]It has been an honour for me as a fan to have had the opportunity to work for the club and I wish everyone well, on and off the park, as I return to my seat in the Phil O’Donnell Stand.[/pullquote]

Confirming his departure, Derek said: “I was invited to join the Board six years ago by John Boyle to assist with the financial planning and ultimately to achieve a change of ownership.

“This led to the formation of the ‘Well Society and a sale of the majority shareholding to Les Hutchison last year.

“I never intended remaining on the Board for so long and now that Les and the Society are working closely together on securing the long term future of the club, I have decided to step down to give me more time to focus on my other business interests.

“It has been an honour for me as a fan to have had the opportunity to work for the club and I wish everyone well, on and off the park, as I return to my seat in the Phil O’Donnell Stand.”

Motherwell Football Club would like to sincerely thank Derek for all his tireless work and effort over the last six years and wish him continued success in his other interests away from the game.

Extended highlights from the Global Energy Stadium as ‘Well booked their spot in the Youth Cup Final with a fine 0-3 win.

Stephen Craigan paid tribute to his players after they reached the Final of the Scottish FA Youth Cup with a fine 0-3 win over Ross County.

The Steelmen dominated for large spells, created numerous chances and eventually ran out comfortable winners courtesy of goals from Dylan Mackin and a David Turnbull double.

The 54-times capped former Northern Ireland International admitted he was worried about complacency from his side after a great run of results leading into the game, but he needn’t have worried with ‘Well putting in one of their best displays of the campaign to book a place in the showpiece final next month, their first time at that stage for almost three decades.

[pullquote]We had to match that, do the ugly side of the game first before we could look to impose ourselves in the attacking third and, overall, I think 0-3 was more than merited.[/pullquote]

Craigan, who led Motherwell out at a Hampden final as a player in 2011, will now get to do so as a boss and speaking to MFC TV after the match, the Fir Park legend said: “You’re always a little wary coming into a game such as this when you think you’re form has been really good.

“The last month or so has probably been the best we’ve performed; our consistency has been good as has our performance levels and you worry that the lads, being so young, may rest of their laurels a little bit.

“Credit to them though, they absolutely didn’t and went after the game almost from the first whistle. We knew it was a tricky pitch and having had them watched, we knew the style of play they have would make life difficult for us if we let it.

“We had to match that, do the ugly side of the game first before we could look to impose ourselves in the attacking third and, overall, I think 0-3 was more than merited.”

Motherwell roared into their first Youth Cup Final in almost three decades with a superb 0-3 win over Ross County in Dingwall.

The Steelmen, who have already eliminated Premiership sides Partick Thistle, Kilmarnock and St Johnstone, as well as Stenhousemuir, on route to today’s Semi Final, were in sensational form with goals from Dylan Mackin and a brace for sixteen-year old David Turnbull.

The victory, Motherwell’s fifth in their last six games, sets up a fixture with either Hearts or Dundee Utd, who will contest the second Semi Final this coming Tuesday evening.

Craigan named three changes to the side that thrashed Hamilton Accies at New Douglas Park last Wednesday.

Over-agers Jack Leitch, Kieran Kennedy and Wes Fletcher all dropped out, replaced in the starting eleven by David Ferguson, David Turnbull and Dylan Mackin.

‘Well made a positive start to the game and Dom Thomas posted early intentions with a curling shot from distance that forced Mark Foden to save.

County took until the 9th minute to get their first shot away, and striker Greg Morrison perhaps should have done better after robbing Barry Maguire thirty-yards from goal. However, with teammate Ross MacIver screaming for the square ball, the striker’s low shot went a foot or so wide of target.

However, it was the Claret and Amber men who continued to set the pace though and they came so close to taking the lead on 24 minutes. Mackin turned Robbie Leitch’s delicate cross back into the danger area for Turnbull but his close-range turn and shot was somehow deflected over for a corner.

Turnbull was in the thick of the action again and he had a 20-yard effort straight at Foden before the ‘Well eventually got their noses in front with nine minutes left to the interval.

Dom Thomas was the architect, picking up a McMillan pass on the left flank only to dribble past his marker and whip an inviting near post cross in for Mackin who lopped a header into the far corner to put the visitors in front.

‘Well had two more chances to double their advantage before the break, but Turnbull sent a bouncing shot just wide before Thomas flashed a 25-yard hit high over the crossbar.

Craigan’s half-time talk will no doubt have concentrated on trying to get the second goal to kill the game, and they almost did after just fifty seconds when a forty-yard Luke Watt free-kick almost caught out Foden in the home goal, but they keeper managed to get a good hand up to turn the ball over the bar.

The game’s crucial moment was just minutes later though when County were awarded a spot kick, Morrison fouled in the box by Maguire who was scrambling to try and recover a poor back pass from midfield.

Left back Chris McLaughlin would take it, but would meet his match in Brett Long, who got down superbly well low to his left to turn the low shot around for a corner.

It took time for the Fir Parkers to clear their head after that, but Mackin soon settled any nerves with a fierce shot that narrowly flew past Foden’s right hand post.

However, ‘Well would make no mistake two minutes later when they grabbed their second of the match to all but kill any hopes of a recovery for the home side.

Thomas was again the man, sending in a delightful ball from the left for the unmarked Turnbull, who had ghosted in at the far post to nod home past Foden.

In a bid to try and salvage something, County changed things up and introduced Tom MacLennan from the bench in place of Blair Malcolm and the youngster almost had an immediate impact, firing a low shot inches wide of target after being on the pitch no more than forty seconds.

However, Craigan’s men were soon on the attack and Foden was again the man in the right place, when he stood up well to save from Mackin. However, he would be absolutely powerless to stop ‘Well securing their spot for the Hampden showpiece when Turnbull netted again with just fourteen minutes left.

Unsurprisingly, Thomas was again in the thick of it, skinning his marker on the touchline before whipping in another excellent near post cross which was controlled by the midfielder before being volleyed high into the net.

It was a fantastic way to end an amazing week with both the first-team and the Under 20s enjoying good results and performances.

Motherwell: Long, Ferguson, McMillan, Maguire, Watt, Campbell, MacLean (Hastie – 78mins), Turnbull (J.Moore – 84mins), Mackin (Falconer – 82mins), Thomas, R.Leitch

Subs Not Used: Morrison, Livingstone

On Friday 11th March we host Dundee United in our next Ladbrokes Premiership match here at Fir Park, kick off is 7.45pm.

Continuing with the 25th Cup win anniversary theme, Motherwell legend Iain Ferguson will be our special matchday guest.

Iain played for the Club from 90-93, making over 50 appearances in Claret and Amber scoring the opening goal in the 1991 Scottish Cup Final against his old team, Dundee United.

Iain and his party will be guest of the Club in the Centenary Suite, where you can join him for the evening.

It’s a 7.45pm kick-off, so why not start your weekend here at Fir Park with a meal and a competitive Ladbrokes Premiership game against the Tannadice team.

All packages include a ticket, match programme, team-sheet and half time refreshments.

You can choose from three packages:

Centenary Claret: Arrive at our Centenary Suite for 5.45pm. Full, four course table service with access to a pay bar till kick off and then again for an hour post-match.

Book now from only £60 for an adult and £45 for a child under 16.

Centenary Amber: Arrive at our Centenary Suite for 5.45pm. Full, four course table service with complimentary bar and then again for an hour post-match.

Book now for £99 for an adult and £55 for a child under 16.

Millennium Ticket: Enjoy a lighter bite pre-match and at half-time with a complimentary bar for one-hour pre and post-match.

Book now for £70 for an adult and £35 for a child under 16.

Season Ticket holders can upgrade to hospitality for just £25.

01698 333333 | hospitality@motherwellfc.co.uk | #MFC25A