Source: FOOTYMAD
Inverness - 24h on
Much has been written about the boost that comes from a good start to the season. The team set us on the way with Saturday's showing and left everyone with a smile. We’ve had good days at Fir Park before and, no doubt, there will be many more to come. But this win brought a cheer to every Motherwell fan. Jamie Murphy’s goal was well taken and he deserves praise for the execution but we’ve grown used to the striker having his share of the goals. Keith Lasley’s glorious strike in the second half sealed the match and brought a special cheer as the crowd reacted to one of our long time players finding the net. As a bonus he scored in a winning team –both his goals last season still saw him on the losing side. The cherry on the top of Saturday’s win has to be the goal from Stevie Hammell. How often have we seen him cut in from the left wing and, with other options limited, elect to have a crack at goal. On this occasion he got it right and his 25th minute opener set us on the way. As McCall said after the match, “Three goals, three points, a clean sheet - I can’t complain about that.” Apart from the excellent goals the quality of the football drew praise from all quarters. The Herald –“an impressive debut from Nicky Law”; Scotland on Sunday – “[Motherwell] played the slicker football, sweeping the ball across the midfield and, more often than not, into the path of Chris Humphrey, whose delivery was responsible for the opening goal”; Sunday Mail – “slick performance” and the Sun – “the fizzing football, the beautiful one touch movements, the stunning goals. It was a joy to watch.” Rave reviews like that might encourage a few fringe supporters and neutrals to turn up at Fir Park to see what all the fuss is about. We have a trip to Rugby Park next and an opportunity to build the points’ tally. We may have to make the best of Murphy before the transfer window closes at the end of August. There was plenty of interest in our man from south of the border and the scouting reports are bound to encourage a bid or two. McCall was realistic about the possibility but he was clear with his advice. “Jamie is still developing with us and he’ll be worth more next season – hands off!” Jamie might have a difficult decision to make soon. We have to hope that chooses to stay but we’ll wish him well if he goes. Whether the cash offered might be enough tempt the board is another matter. Anything in the order of a million would let the club proceed with their plans for community ownership.
