The postponement of last weekend’s game resulted in an unscheduled training session for the ‘Well squad and the Celtic fixture figured large. Keith Lasley talked to the Evening Times and pointed out that we were unlucky not to take all three points on our last visit to Parkhead. On that occasion Sutton gave us the lead after twenty minutes and it took a late penalty to level the game.
When Celtic came to Fir Park last month there was only one goal between the teams and but for a wild header from Erwin inside the last ten we might have snatched a point.
The game will take its usual pattern with Celtic pushing forward and Motherwell looking to make progress on the break. Quite how effective that will be is uncertain. Ojamaa has a two match suspension to serve and we are sure to miss his pace. O'Brien will be available on Wednesday but his one game suspension will keep him out of Saturday's meeting with Dundee United.
It will be interesting to discover whether the manager will keep faith with the younger players who have made some inroads into the first team in recent games. Will he spare them exposure to the big game atmosphere or will they be pitched in to continue their development. His decision will be influenced, in part, by the status of those recovering from injury.
The depth and quality of squad available to the Celtic manager is far beyond any that can be mustered by Motherwell and this season's results have reflected that inequality. Our only hope is that our opponents have a bad day at the office and we are able to make the best of the few chances that come our way.
Some bookies have us priced at 22/1 for the upset but there will be few takers. Stout defence and determination will be in evidence but few will be surprised if we escape with a 2-0 loss.