A range of impressive figures followed the game, Motherwell on 50 points, Higdon on 20 SPL goals and a returning hero on 1 wonderful goal. In addition there was a spectacular strike from Higginbotham and a fine strike from Hateley to send us home happy. Although the exploits in front of goal offered easy headlines the scorers would be quick to acknowledge that they had great support from the rest of the team.
Ojamaa was a constant thorn in the Hibs defence and his determination to win any 50/50 ball set up several chances. He’ll have no international break as Estonia play World Cup qualifiers in Amsterdam on Friday followed by a home fixture against Andorra. Good luck to him.
Hutchinson was a rock at the heart of our back line and Hateley coped admirably with his unexpected switch into midfield. Carswell stepped into Lasley’s shoes seamlessly and Randolph dealt well with the few attempts that the visitors produced in the second half.
Faddy was well worth the praise that came his way from everyone lucky enough to see him close to his best. The goal was worthy of winning any game and showed his strengths. A quick turn, close control and a fine left footed accurate shot brought the home fans to their feet. Those of us in the Cooper Stand saw the joy on his face as he started the celebration and there was a hint that there is more to come. In his post match interview he admitted that he has some way to go as his sharpness and stamina improve. To have him in top form as we compete for the runners up spot is a great boost.
The good news kept coming. When asked about his contract talks after the game, Stuart McCall said to Jane Lewis, "It'll get tied up, I'm sure, before our next SPL game. I'm very confident." That next game is a fortnight away and though we’ll hold the congratulations until his name is on the paperwork, it is an encouraging statement.
The gap before the Dundee game will give Law and Lasley time to recover from the knocks that cut short their appearances on Friday but the team performed so well without them that the manager will have the comfort of knowing that we can succeed without them if necessary.