Well see off Norwegian challenge

Page celebrates
By grabar
August 6 2010

Motherwell progressed to the Europa League play off round with a professional performance against Norwegian Cup holders Aalesund last night.

Celtic Manager Neil Lennon was in the crowd probably looking to see how you progress in the Europa League after his side's dismal effor the night before.

He saw Motherwell make the best possible start with two goals in the opening 13 minutes. Firstly Jamie Murphy smashed a Chris Humphrey shot high into the top corner from 12 yards out.

This was followed by a John Sutton goal in 13 minutes when he prodded a Stephen Sanders cross past the keeper.

The game became extremely cagey after this with Motherwell defending in depth inviting Aalesunds on while looking to hit on the break.

This meant there were precious few chances made with neither keeper really being worked, although a header from Flotre with 15 minutes left had Motherwell fans panicing for a moment.

The game was sealed with a counter attack goal in the 89th minute, Murphy broke clear before squaring for Jonathan Page to tap into an empty net for his first senior goal.

The youngster was a surprise sub, with Brown putting the defender on in midfield but it worked out for him with youngsters energy getting upfield to seal the tie.