Motherwell end a gruelling Sunday, Wednesday, Saturday run of games when Hibs come to Fir Park at the weekend. A win would complete a fantastic week for the club but the visitors pose a real threat.
It becomes increasingly difficult to do justice to Stephen Robinson’s team as they keep producing terrific performances week by week. In many ways the 1-0 win in Dundee supercedes the trouncing of a poor Rangers team in the semi-final. The manager made good use of his squad to spread the burden and he was able to bring on Cadden, Moult and Grimshaw as second half substitutes with the lead already established.
It was no surprise to see leg weary players at the end of the match but the willingness of the team to give their all for the cause was evident. Hibs will offer a big challenge on Saturday but Robinson will have our boys well prepared.
It could be that the four Hampden heroes that were rested in midweek could return but Tanner, Fisher, Bigirimana and Frear will argue that their contribution makes them contenders. Hartley hobbled off the Dens Park pitch midway through the second half but there is no news yet of his availability.
Since we recovered from a two goal deficit at Easter Road in mid-September Hibs have not had the best of fortunes. Two wins, two losses and a draw have placed them in fifth, three points behind us.
Neil Lennon may have Stokes fit and ready but the team that defeated Hearts on Tuesday may have first call. McGeough and McGinn seem to be blending well in midfield.
The bookies may have taken their eye off the ball ahead of this game. Motherwell have won four in a row and sit above Hibs in the table. Our opponents have won one of their last four. The form table suggests that a home win would not be a surprise yet Motherwell can be backed at 5/2 while an away win is listed at 5/4. Those of us who placed a few quid on us beating Rangers may be tempted! A 2-1 win will do nicely.
Remember the last time Hibs were at Fir Park?