Image source: bbc.com
Motherwell secured a comfortable victory over St Mirren on Saturday to maintain their position within two points of Celtic and Rangers in the Scottish Premiership, with manager Jens Berthel Askou declaring his side are aiming for a fantastic season rather than settling for individual results.
Askou’s Motherwell Continue Impressive Form With Commanding St Mirren Victory
The Steelmen recorded their 11th clean sheet of the season against St Mirren, extending their remarkable defensive record that has seen them concede just one goal in their past nine matches. Motherwell wanted revenge following their Premier Sports Cup semi-final defeat to the Buddies in November, and they delivered a convincing performance that backed up their recent victory over Celtic.
More than 7,000 supporters attended Fir Park on a bitterly cold afternoon, demonstrating the growing excitement around Askou’s team. Though St Mirren started positively with early attacking moves, Motherwell’s backline remained untroubled as they secured their seventh consecutive home clean sheet. The Danish manager praised his players post-match, stating they produced great moments including two beautiful goals while remaining extremely focused defensively.
Stephen O’Donnell and second goalscorer Elliot Watt each won back possession nine times during the match, exemplifying the work rate throughout the team. Elijah Just provided his fourth assist of the season and recorded 10 touches in the St Mirren penalty area, matching the tally of Ibrahim Said as Motherwell’s attacking players showed enthusiasm and energy throughout the contest.
Motherwell have collected 22 points from their 11 games since the semi-final loss, including victories against league leaders Hearts and Celtic. Askou acknowledged his team’s extremely ambitious nature while remaining cautious about title talk, admitting they are in a position few expected after 21 games. The manager expressed his desire to stay in their current position and suggested they might reach for even more.
The Steelmen face a trip to Easter Road next weekend to play Hibernian, who sit just two points behind them in the table. Following that fixture, Motherwell have a favorable run of matches including home games against Kilmarnock on 24 January and away trips to bottom-placed Livingston on 31 January and ninth-placed Dundee on 4 February, before hosting Rangers on 11 February.
