Motherwell’s festive fixtures continue with a visit from Rangers on Sunday.
The seasonal joy took a bit of a beating when Celtic handed out a 4-0 drubbing on Boxing Day. The Steelmen can take some comfort with the knowledge that, on current form, the other Glasgow team presents a less formidable foe.
Philippe Clement vented his frustration with his team during the interval in Paisley on Thursday. His fears were realised when St Mirren struck late to deliver a fourth league loss this campaign.
This will be the third meeting between the pair this season, the earlier games were both at Hampden and Rangers came out on top 2-1 each time. Can we assume another close encounter at Fir Park?
Stuart Kettlewell will be sure to leave the Parkhead thumping behind as he prepares for Rangers’ visit. He made four changes for that match and it seems likely that he will make some adjustments. The short interval between the holiday fixtures will test Motherwell’s squad.
The manager will be please to see Sam Nicholson adding more on-field minutes in the last couple of games and we may see him for a half on Sunday. Tawanda Maswanhise still looks like the catalyst for the ‘Well attack and he is likely to pose some problems for a nervous visiting defence.
Motherwell last had a home win against Rangers in the 2015 play-off and few will predict a repeat. But a tight draw may offer some excitiong entertainment, 2-2.