Motherwell’s defence had repelled what seemed like an endless stream of attacks and our hosts were reduced to speculative efforts from distance. Our young centre back pairing had looked solid and Hollis’ display in goals showed no evidence of a long spell without first team action.
The players would have expected a determined onslaught in the closing ten minutes. After all, on our last visit they scored twice in the last final moments to recover a two goal deficit. We paid dearly for the momentary lapse that afforded McGinn space on the six yard line.
The draw for the fifth round will take place at Hampden on Monday lunchtime and the teams will know what lies ahead for the winner of the replay. The club will be hoping that the game is chosen to TV coverage as they are likely to make much of a profit otherwise. Our first domestic cup fixture was the disaster at Ibrox in the League Cup so this match on Tuesday 11 December will be available to season ticket holders at no cost. Given that Aberdeen will be due half of the proceeds after match expenses this will not be a money spinning encounter.
This week will see us prepare for the first visit of Ross County. Derek Adams is all too familiar with Fir Park as are Mark Brown, Michael Fraser and Marc Fitzpatrick, but we’ll be hoping that they return home empty handed.
There’s a Well Society event on Thursday. The newly elected board will be on hand to give an update on their early efforts and no doubt they’ll be keen to have a discussion with members who attend the Centenary Suite from 7pm.