It seemed as though the contest was on hold until both sets of fans joined in a standing ovation to mark the fifth anniversary of the passing of Phil O'Donnell and the slow start gave no inkling of the exciting finish that might have given Motherwell all three points.
The visitors took the lead when Perez swivelled on the 18 yard line then unleashed a fine shot high to Randolph's left. The settled into a defensive shell with Heffernan an isolated figure for the rest of the half.
Fans mark Phil's anniversary
Motherwell set about breaking down the ranks of blue and white that guarded Bell's goal in from of the South Stand. Higdon had a header on target before Killie had another opportunity on the break. Heffernan got the better of Randolph and managed a goalward lob that forced Hutchinson to clear from under the bar. Our centre back had to be replaced on the half hour and Cummins joined up with Ramsden.
Hateley had a bash with a couple of free kicks within goal range but Bell held both with ease then Ojamaa fired low and missed by inches. The second period started with a Lasley effort close to target before Randolph produced a fine stop from Sheridan but the visitors were two up on the hour. Heffernan pounced on the 'keeper's parry to give the visitors hope of collecting three points.
As is the norm when we are a couple down(!), McHugh came on and Cummins was withdrawn. We were now in full attack mode with Humphrey able to deliver telling balls from the right and Ojamaa moving to the wide left spot.
With twenty minutes left we were still two behind. Excellent work from Humphrey allowed him to reach the line and his cut back was directed into the goal by McHugh. Murphy helped it over the line and the fightback was underway.
We were level three minutes later after a long overdue goal from Ojamaa. He collected the ball on the left wing, beat a couple then unleashed a curler in off the far post. The pistols got an airing as he celebrated with the Cooper end fans.
Killie were now hanging on as we pushed for the winner. Murphy hit the side net and Lasley had a couple of wild efforts. McHugh came close as he slid in but the visitors held on, happy to take a point.
As the team applauded the support at the end Stuart McCall joined in and made it clear that Murphy's contribution should be acknowledged. The feeling was that this was a farewell to Fir Park - if so, Jamie has the thanks of all Motherwell fans for his contribution over the years and we'll follow his career with interest.