Both clubs ended their interest in the Scottish Cup last month and consequently agreed the sensible move from the original midweek date to a more fan friendly weekend kick-off. However, there will be few amicable exchanges on the pitch.
Motherwell have a two point advantage and it can be argued that the home team have the greater need of the points but both managers are likely to regard this one as one they must not lose.
Our record in Hamilton is abysmal but the Accies’ current form must offer encouragement that we will not come away empty handed. They have won only twice since September and once in the last 13 outings. Motherwell fans quick to criticise our poor showing over the winter may take some underserved comfort from our neighbour’s distress.
Our last win at NDP - McGhee in charge
Mark McGhee has shown that he is not afraid to shuffle the shape of his team to counter the opposition and as this will be his first time in charge since his winning visit in 2009 there may be a surprise in store.
Hamilton will be without the services of suspended centre-back Garcia Tena but they will have been boosted with the point taken against Celtic last Friday. Imrie will be worth the watching and we know the potential of Crawford shooting.
The U20s have shown the way with their 3-0 win over the young Accies on Wednesday. Now it’s time for the big team to give us some cheer over our local rivals. A 2-1 win will do nicely.
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