How's the goalie doing?
Our poor run of results hasn't given 'Well fans much to be optimistic about. One of the better things has been the emergence of Scott Howie. Last season we lost a few silly goals because of Steve Woods and the defence's mix ups. Scott spent most of that season as a reserve and one of his few first team starts was in the United disaster.
Scott came to us from Norwich City for a fee of around £200,000. He started his career at Clyde before moving south to Norwich only to find that he was second choice to Bryan Gunn at Norwich and had to sit on the bench. His first start for the Canaries came against Liverpool. Scott has five Scottish under 21 caps on his honours list although if his good form persists that may change.
It was during the Summer silly season/transfer time that Scott was linked with a move to Rangers as the Huns searched for a reserve goalkeeper but the move fell through so he stayed put. At the start of the season Steve Woods was still first choice but some inept performances, especially in the MyPa home game cost him the jersey giving Scott Howie his first prolonged spell in the first team.
Scott has grown in confidence and mix ups between him and his defenders are minimal. Scott is an excellent shot stopper which he proved against Hearts by saving a penalty and us from a trouncing. He also looks very assured while coming for crosses. At only 24 he is still very young and has a promising career ahead of him. Lets hope he chooses to stay at Fir Park. As Jim Leighton is ageing Scott Howie may be called up to the Scotland squad if only as cover for Andy Goram.
Derek Wilson
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