The first loss in Aberdeen since 2008 left us with a sorry two wins and a draw from our eleven league outings. Those victories (against St Mirren and Ross County) saved us from occupying the bottom spot. The disappointment and frustration at the horrible start to the season is shared by fans, staff and players alike but in the search for better form we need to look to the games ahead rather than those now gone.
'Well crowd in happy mood in Perth
The financial model adopted following our brush with administration over a decade ago dictates that the club should not spend money it does not have. That guiding principle should remain regardless of any threat that may result from our league position. In practice that means that we will rely on the current staff to revive our flagging fortunes.
Ahead of kick off at Pittodrie many ‘Well fans would have settled for the avoidance of a drubbing and the 1-0 defeat, despite our solitary attempt on target, is hardly the worst we’ve suffered this season. The next game is always the target and that will take us to McDiarmid for another Friday night on live television.
It’s clear that we have problems in attack and defence. A measly six goals from eleven games is the lowest total in the Premiership. The supply to Sutton has been poor and, in any event, he has often been positioned as a midfielder. Ojamaa has yet to come close to the predator that inspired us on his first spell at Fir Park. Ainsworth has been unable to get a consistent run of games and still seems short of match sharpness.
In defence only Ross County have conceded more than us. The inability to field a regular back line must be a big factor. Will the return of Hammell and Ramsden lead to a steadying of the shaky ship?
Whatever the ills and no matter what the cure, all we can do from the sidelines is to support the players on the pitch.