While our recent 5-1 win at Firhill might suggest that this game has a foregone conclusion, Motherwell’s management will be stressing to the team that nothing less than a wholly committed display is expected.
Thistle's last visit to Fir Park
Thistle have added to their ranks since the last meeting with Moncur from West Ham and Buaben from Carlisle giving midfield options. Ross Forbes joined Dunfermline in the winter window but they retain the ex-‘Well duo of Higginbotham and Lawless.
Although our opponents have yet to achieve a home win this season they have recorded four wins on the road, the last at Tynecastle early in January. Since then they have become draw specialists, taking a point in four of their last five outings but they are still battling to escape the playoff position.
Motherwell players have been kicking their heels for the last two Saturdays as early exits from both domestic cups delivered an unscheduled break. For the most part the injury list has reduced and any minor knocks and niggles should have disappeared. Ramsden is not yet in contention following a procedure on his knee but Stuart McCall has reported that Hollis, Kerr and Vigurs should be in contention for places. He should have no trouble selecting a strong line up.
The weather has not been kind to the playing surface and the club has appealed for volunteers to be on standby on Saturday morning. A major forking effort may be needed to ensure the pitch is fit for the 3pm kick off. Anyone willing to help should email their phone number to amarshall@motherwellfc.co.uk.
John Sutton's first goal of the season gave us a 1-0 win over Thistle in August and we should have every expectation of improving on that margin this weekend. A 3-1 result will see us maintaining our push for second place.
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