A share of the spoils was probably the correct outcome and our tally of away draws is now five from six games.
There are mixed feelings in the Motherwell support as we look back on the game. We recognise the problems caused for team selection and the makeshift nature of the starting eleven . Posted missing were Ruddy, Hutchison, Moutouakil and Hammell - probably four of the current first choice defensive line. Given that our preferred style depends heavily on a passing build-up from the back and that we had Sutton and Jutkiewicz up front, there was little surprise that we played a direct game using the two strikers as long range targets. Unfortunately Hamilton have plenty of height in their team and they made the best of the high balls which fell on them in numbers.
The fact remains that we were playing against ten men for an hour and for most of that time we seemed unable to make the advantage tell. Two goals were lost from crossed balls coming from the left and both were converted with headers. Given that tale of woe we have to be grateful that the players stuck to the task and managed to find two equalisers. Murphy’s strike was sublime and Jutkiewicz’s finish minutes from time should help to build his confidence, he now has four goals to his name.
The upcoming international break will give a welcome rest to many in the squad . Saturday’s derby was the 19th competitive game of the season and the early start which gave us an early advantage may now be looking for payback. Humphrey limped off in the dying minutes and reports suggest that he has a hamstring problem. He’ll join the other crocks on the treatment table. The manager has suggested already that our younger players were feeling strained with the recent midweek game reducing recovery time. Several days of rest and recuperation will see them refreshed for the visit of Aberdeen on November21.