Those who expected that this game would be a dress rehearsal for next week's curtain raiser at
A first half attack
We played with five across the middle but there was plenty of movement within the formation. Indeed, before the clock had reached the half hour Clarkson and McCormack had switched wings then Porter and Clarkson swapped positions as McGhee tried to find a combination which would break through the visitor's defence.
Motherwell sported the new away outfit and although they looked the part the play did not live up to their appearance. Lasley had an early shot and later McCormack joined in but both attempts were high. We had most of the attacking possession in the first half but there was little threat. Any incursions into our own half were efficiently dealt with by Reynolds and McLean.
Both sides seemed more intent on matching up to their opposite numbers than finding space adn having a go. Eventually the home crowd found their entertainment by booing Lennon. Even that became tedious.
The second half aw us produce seven(!) substitutions and a further two made an appearance as the game petered out. McCormack gave us a thrill when a twist and turn allowed him to fire off a shot but in keeping with the manner of the game, it was wide.
Our defence was tested in the closing minutes when a series of corners caused some concern but the final whistle came without either side having any clear cut chance.
Everyone will be delighted to get to the real action next week. Bring on the Saints!
Team: Smith, Paterson, Reynolds, McLean, McGarry, Quinn, McCormack, Fitzpatrick, Lasley, Clarkson, Porter
All except Smith and Porter were replaced in the second half by Corrigan, Murphy, D Smith, Craigan, Kinniburgh, O'Donnell, Mensing, Malloy and Connolly
Attendance 2505
Motherwell 0