We can be grateful that the performance against United at least produced a return to the enthusiastic and committed effort that was so sadly lacking at Firhill. Fans will forgive errors of judgement and will excuse lapses in skill when it is clear that players give of their best. And there was no complaint on that front on Saturday.
It would be foolish to suggest that hard work and application will be enough to move us off the bottom of the table. Our defensive display was not good enough and though credit has to be given to McIntyre and Miller for their strikes, we have to be disappointed that they had the opportunity.
The return of Leitch and Pearson to the team added both bite and adventure to the midfield compared to the horror on show against Thistle.
Lehmann’s relegation to the bench may give some indication of Butcher’s thoughts on whether Dirk is to be offered a new contract. Clarkson and Craig are making it clear that they are contenders for the lead role up front.
Faddy, Pearson, Hammell and Corrigan all made powerful forward runs on Saturday and though none produced a goal. Surely that will change!
Who will Terry choose between the sticks on Wednesday? Frankie was probably due a rest and Woods had a fair enough game against United. It could be the game on Wednesday will be thought to need the more experienced ‘keeper.
The large turnout of ‘Well fans at Saturday’s game demonstrates yet again that the size of the gate is dependent both on price and on the significance of the result. Let’s hope that those in charge of the SPL take note.
The remaining games are Celtic(h), Hibs(a), Aberdeen(h) and Livingstone(h). United have to visit Livi and Thistle befor their final game against Aberdeen at Tannadice. The ‘Well are only one point adrift and we have a significantly better goal difference.
Come on ye ‘Well.