Motherwell move close to Champions League place

Motherwell’s 1-0 win over Hearts last night moved them eight points ahead of Dundee United, with the Arabs having only three games left.

Michael Higdon’s first half goal was enough to see Motherwell through on the night against a Hearts side who appeared to have their minds on the Scottish Cup Final in a fortnight.

Motherwell worked harder and closed Hearts down at every opportunity and reduced them to long range efforts which failed to trouble Darren Randolph at any time.

The media are keen to say Motherwell are already in the CL but Well boss Stuart McCall believes his side are not there yet, as Dundee United still have nine points to play for.

He did say if United can beat Rangers, then Celtic and finally Motherwell on the last day of the season they will deserve to take Motherwell’s third place from them.

This would be harsh on Motherwell who have been in the top three almost all season.

They are a lesson for all other SPL sides on how to build a side on a limited budget. They have a small squad of quality players backed up by a number of promising youngsters. 14 players have played in 50% or more of the games, with another 11 having played in a back up role throughout the season.

Well are now looking for Rangers to take something from Dundee Utd tonight and their place will be sealed with two games left.