The significance of the Hamilton derby varies greatly among the Motherwell support but even those who pine for the days of all out war with Airdrie would surely acknowledge it is more interesting than yet another clash with sides from Dundee or Edinburgh. Rivalries of any sort need time and events to build them up – Hamilton are now in their third successive SPL season and in that time have given us some significant bloody noses, in the League Cup of 2008/09 and at that Christmas when an appalling performance as New Douglas Park put us joint bottom of the table.
Hateley tries his luck
Going into this weekend it is Motherwell who are on a high, not just in the semi final of a cup but sitting proudly in third place. The Accies are battling as hard as ever but results aren't falling for them presently and their record of one win in ten competitive games is horrific, bad luck or not.
We may find this a tougher challenge than expected though as our previously settled side is in danger of being ripped apart. Lasley is already out and Murphy may not recover from going over his ankle on Tuesday. To add to the woes both Hammell and Jennings are further doubts. In the worst case scenario of everyone missing out, Page or Hutchison will join the defence with Forbes or Fitzpatrick joining Hateley in the centre of the park. Sutton is the obvious replacement for Murphy but moving Gow out wide and allowing Sutton to partner Blackman would seem the better option to a direct switch.
Hamilton may have Alex Neil back after months on the sidelines and have an otherwise healthy squad to choose from with only Gibson definitely missing out.
This is unlikely to be a classic but another win here will further solidify our position in the race for Europe. Two late goals could give us a vital 2-0 victory.
Remember the last time Accies were at Fir Park?