The psychological effect of a decent run at the start of any league campaign cannot be underestimated. The confidence and self believe which flows through the squad in these circumstances contrasts with the gloom, doom and uncertainty which follow a poor start.
It hardly matters that the opposition for the first three games included teams which are fancied to finish in the bottom half. Despite the huge changes in personnel in recent months we have now gone three without loss. The next test will be the performance over the next three games. Rangers, Dundee United and Hibs all lie above us in the table and we can make a better judgement about our prospects towards the end of September. Another win and a couple of draws should do nicely.
Out with the old... in with the new
The game at Pittodrie was a disappointment. The flair and flourish which has become the trademark of Gannon's early matches was, for the most part, missing. It seemed that Jutkiewicz was isolated for the first half hour and although O'Brien was on form on the wing, we needed more up front to make the best of his crosses. The introduction of Sutton after half an hour at the sacrifice of Hammell suggested that the manager felt we had a chance to capitalise on the service from the wing. We had three good chances before the turnaround but the headers were high.
The second half, which we played into a strong wind, was poor. Neither team looked like breaking the deadlock and the resulting draw was a fair result. On that showing our old mentor would seem to have his work cut out if he is to improve on Calderwood's efforts.
The criticism of the behaviour of some of Motherwell's fans was correct. We had a good contingent up from the central belt and while some ribbing of McGhee was to be expected, it was a pity that a lack of imagination resulted in a few regrettable chants.
No doubt the guys will have a few days off ahead of the international break and some minor recharging of the batteries should set us up for the battles ahead. The transfer window closes at 5pm on Tuesday. Will we get the defender Gannon had his eyes on?