Motherwell started the game with a couple of changes from the eleven that lost to Aberdeen. In came McHugh and Lawson at the cost of Francic-Angol and Anier. The Estonian had been on his midweek travels again, this time to play 45 minutes against Latvia, and the decision was taken to keep him in reserve.
In a stark contrast to last week’s great start it was our turn to concede an early goal and it was a howler. Lasley conceded a free kick forty yards out on the right and our defence completely ignored Foran who had the freedom of the right half of the penalty box. His flying header have Hollis no hope and we were behind inside the first 5 minutes.
Hutchinson heads over the bar
We looked unsettled and without any rhythm although Lasley managed a fierce effort from 15 yards on the right to sting Brill’s hands. Our lack of confidence meant that few passes reached their target and inevitably our short spells in possession ended with a hopeful punt up the park. Faddy looked frustrated and he spent much of his time on his backside appealing to referee Brines.
Inverness deserved to double their lead ten minutes before the break when McKay converted Raven’s square pass with ease. Our reply was a powder puff header on target. If ever there was a need for an inspirational team talk, this was it.
The emergency plan was to remove McHugh and Lawson with Anier and Carswell and the effect was immediately apparent. Anier offered some pace and he had a couple of half chances within the first two minutes of the restart. McFadden, with the wind at his back, was more involved and it appeared that we were starting to compete. Faddy’s contribution was cut short in 65 minutes when he was substituted for Francis-Angol.
The early promise withered and Inverness countered our new found enthusiasm and the game petered out without much in the way of clear cut chances a at either end. We’ll need to improve before the other Thistle come to Fir Park next week!