Third Round Magic Ahead

Many ‘Well fans look forward to the away day associated with the third round of the cup. It has been an excuse for a jamboree for a number of years now but part of the excitement comes from the unpredictability of these ties.

A year ago we were away to Rugby Park full of hope and expectation. As usual there was a large Motherwell support in the away stand but we left disappointed after a collapse just before half time. We conceded two goals, both from corners and never looked like recovering. Killie were to repeat their 2-0 winning scoreline a week later in a repeat fixture in the league. Fortunately our run in the CIS cup provided some compensation for the truncated. Full report -Jan 2005 v Kilmarnock.

In 2004 we travelled in numbers to Perth. Such was the size of the Motherwell support that the stewards had to open a section of the main stand to take the overflow from our allotted section. David Clarkson continued his rich goalscoring glut by adding a couple to the hat trick he had scored a week earlier against Dundee United at Fir Park. He was substituted by newcomer Scott McDonald with fifteen minutes remaining and the Aussie scored his debut goal to give us a comfortable 3-0 win. Full report- Jan 2004 v St Johnstone.

McFadden v Marshall

A happier trip to Rugby Park in 2003 resulted in a 1-0 win. Clarkson was brought down in the box and McFadden did the business from the spot. The action took place in front of the pack ‘Well stand and there were great cheers as Gordon Marshall in the Killie goal was sent the wrong way. We then overcame Clyde and Stranraer before losing to Rangers in the semi final. Full report- Jan 2003 v Kilmarnock.

The game in 2002 was a disaster at East End Park. In the words of manager Eric Black, “At three down the game was over". He had selected a team which baffled the frustrated Motherwell support and the game was lost before Elliott was brought on to score a consolation in a 1-3 defeat. There were fireworks in the dressing room post match and Ned Kelly was sent packing. It was not our finest day. Full report - Jan 2002 v Dunfermline.

So, what of the upcoming adventure at Paisley?