Latest News

Motherwell dusted off Friday nights blues with a comprehensive victory over East Fife in a behind closed doors friendly at K-Park on Sunday.

Captain Gill Inglis broke the deadlock early on with an accurate strike from distance, with a Carla Boyce hat-trick, Kayla Jardine double, a brace from Kaitlyn Canavan and a late Bailley Collins volley sealing an exceptional 9-0 victory.

Head coach, Paul Brownlie made six changes to the side that started Friday’s encounter, with Morgan Hay, Georgie Rafferty, Louisa Boyes, Sarah Gibb, and Kayla Jardine all returning to the starting XI, whilst Rebecca Cameron returned in goal.

On the hunt for their first victory of the 2023/24 pre-season campaign, Motherwell started the first half firmly on the front foot, with Canavan coming close to an early opener after cutting inside from the right, but the strikers effort narrowly evaded the far post.

The visitors struggled to maintain possession in the opening phases of play, with the women of steel quickly retrieving control of the ball and finding opportunities across both flanks. Motherwell continued to flood the opposition penalty area and their persistence was soon rewarded with a quickfire double.

Inglis accurately picked out the top corner with a precise curling effort from the edge of the box before a loose pass at the back was expertly intercepted by Jardine who coolly converted.

Jardine continued to cause the visitors problems cutting inside from the left flank before picking out both Tara McGonigle and Canavan, but Motherwell couldn’t capitalise.

The hosts eventually netted their third of the afternoon on the stroke of half time. Jardine again worked her way into a threatening position on the left before accurately picking out Boyce with a floated delivery across the face of goal, and the striker smashed a low strike beyond the reach of the keeper.

As the second half resumed, Motherwell picked up where they left off, forcing East Fife into trading possession deep into their own half, and another two quickfire goals followed.

Boyce netted her second of the game, with a high cross from the left drifting invitingly towards the striker, who headed home for her second and Motherwell’s fourth of the afternoon.

A mix-up in the penalty area preceded a goal-line scramble, which allowed Motherwell to force through their fifth.

Boyce completed her hat-trick soon after, heading home from close range. Canavan made it seven after a perfectly-weighted through ball from Jardine sliced through the visiting defence, leaving the striker one-on-one with the keeper, but despite her initial effort blocked; the striker prodded home the rebound.

Canavan secured her brace moments later after substitute Kaela McDonald-Nguah found the forward lurking in the box, and Canavan expertly escaped her marker to prod home Motherwell’s eighth.

Substitute Collins made an instant impact from the bench, lashing home a volley from the right, picking out the far-left corner for Motherwell’s ninth and final goal of the game.

Line-ups:

R. Cameron, M. Hay, T. McGonigle, G. Rafferty, C. Watson, G. Inglis, S. Gibb, L. Boyes, K. Jardine, C. Boyce, K. Canavan.

Motherwell return to action in a behind closed doors friendly this afternoon.

Following a heavy defeat to Hearts in their previous pre-season encounter, the women of steel will be looking for a response, as they host East Fife at K-Park.

The Tale of the Tape

Motherwell

Paul Brownlie’s side will be looking for a resurgence from Friday evening’s defeat, with the Fifers visit providing the opportunity to secure our first pre-season victory, as we approach the finale of our 2023/24 campaign.

The women of steel will have a full squad available for this afternoons encounter, minus the recent acquisition of Hannah Cunningham, who will remain unavailable.

It has been over half a decade since Motherwell’s last meeting with East Fife, with both sides facing each other in an SWPL2 clash in September 2017, with the points shared in a 1-1 draw.

East Fife

East Fife are preparing for a season in the SWF Championship following relegation from SWPL2 last season.

The visitors finished the 2022/23 campaign 12 points shy of nearest rivals Stirling University, with their only victory coming in a 2-1 win over Queens Park.

How to follow the action
Supporters can follow this afternoons encounter on Twitter @motherwellwomen, with a full report of the action available post-match.

Motherwell are now in touching distance of the next round in the Viaplay Cup, having picked up their second win in the group against Queen’s Park. 

Jon Obika’s deflected goal midway through the first half was enough to give Motherwell a narrow victory and three points and extend their advantage at the top of their Viaplay League Cup group.

In truth, though, Stuart Kettlewell’s side took very little else from a game, where Queen’s Park more than matched them. Indeed, apart from a dominant spell either side of the interval when the Fir Park men spurned a number of chances to extend their lead, they failed to get the better of the Championship side.

This early evening televised game provided Fir Park fans the first glimpse of the new look Steelmen. The ‘Well boss made the minimum of changes to the side that returned from Dumfries with 2 points in midweek.

Shane Blaney and the re-signed Dan Casey came in to form the central defensive trio alongside Paul McGinn, in front of Liam Kelly, alternating with Aston Oxborough for the ‘keeper’s gloves.

And the Motherwell rearguard was given some testing moments in the first 20 minutes as Queen’s, very comfortable in possession, bravely took the game to the Premiership side. Three consecutive corners put some pressure on Kelly’s goal before Casey cut out a promising cut back from Barry Hepburn.

It was 25 minutes before ‘Well finally threatened Calum Ferrie’s goal. A fine build u should have resulted in the opening gaol but two yards from an open goal Obika somehow stooped to head Stephen O’Donnell’s low cross wide of the post.

A couple of minutes later Callum Slattery hooked Blair Spittal’s cut-back over the bar as the fans sensed the breakthrough wasn’t far away.

When it arrived in the 28th minute it owed a lot to a cruel deflection. Obika collected Slattery’s pass at the edge of the box and although his left foot shot was on target Ferrie had it covered until Will Tizzard’s outstretched leg carried the ball past his helpless ‘keeper.

There was almost a repeat at the other end two minutes later. Former Fir Park winger Dom Thomas cut in from the right before trying to curl the ball towards goal. A touch from Casey looked to have carried the ball over his keeper but Kelly stretched high to palm the ball away.

A minute before the interval the Steelmen almost doubled their advantage but Slattery’s thumping drive from 18 yards came crashing back off the crossbar.

Within a minute of the restart the home side passed up another chance to extend the lead. A wonderful mazy run from McGinn deserved a better finish but Spittal’s effort from 20 yards sent the ball high into the Davie Cooper stand.

As ‘Well stepped up the pace the Queen’s goal was lucky to survive some poor defending after 52 minutes. From his own byeline Fox tried to play in his ‘keeper but having rolled the ball into the six-yard box he was relieved as Ferrie reacted to clatter the ball of the advancing Obika and send the ball over the bar.

That was Obika’s last involvement as 18 year-old Mark Ferrie was given 30 minutes to find a crucial second goal.

For all that Motherwell were more determined and sharper at the start of the second half the Championship side still chased an equaliser and it almost arrived after 67 minutes.

A cross ball came off Pape Souare’s raised arm and in the absence of VAR, Steven McLean’s decision to award a corner wasn’t overturned. When Thomas floated the flag kick towards the front post Tizzard’s touch sent the ball glancing off the face of the bar as ‘Well desperately cleared the ball out of the six-yard box.

With 20 minutes remaining Kettlewell tried to take the sting out of the visitor’s game sending on the experienced Harry Paton for 16 year-old Lennon Miller.

As the Steelmen were forced deeper into their own half, Queen’s looked the more likely to grab and equaliser.

Ten minutes from time the tie was almost beyond them as Spittal had a double opportunity to make it 2-0.

His first attempt from Slattery’s pass was firmly held by Ferrie. Inexplicably, the ‘keeper then gave possession back to Spittal and his lob over the stranded Ferrie bounced off the Queen’s crossbar.

Sensing that a second goal wasn’t coming the ‘Well boss made a double substitution bringing on Nathan McGinley and Barry McGuire for the final five minutes as ‘Well held on to their slender lead and three points.

Davor Zdravkovski has joined Motherwell on a two-year deal, subject to international clearance and paperwork formalities. 

The centre-midfielder has made the switch to Scotland, having most recently played with AEL Limassol in Cyprus.

“Davor is an exciting signing for the club,” manager Stuart Kettlewell.

“He is someone who we feel, will fit into the system that we are trying to implement here.

“He’s been in international squads, which shows the quality he has displayed in Cyprus and North Macedonia. The staff here have done an excellent job in scouting and getting the transfer done.

“The fact he’s an unknown player to most Motherwell supporters, makes it more exciting for everyone.”

The 25-year-old broke onto the scene with Makedonija in North Macedonia. He went on to make 33 appearances for Makedonija between 2015 and 2017.

He joined AEL Limassol in 2017, where has since went on to make 161 appearances.

The holding midfielder has had successful spell in Cyprus, from winning the Cypriot Cup in 2019, to representing in the Europa League and Europa Conference League, where the North Macedonian was an integral part of the team.

AEL Limassol, with Zdravkovski in the team, came runners-up in the Cypriot league in 2020/21.

Coming through the North Macedonian youth sides, he was named in North Macedonia’s squad in March, however was an unused sub for their match against Faroe Islands.

“This is a new chapter and new challenge for me,” Davor Zdravkovski added.

“I look forward to working hard with this club and will do my best to bring joy to the fans.”

Zdravkovski will wear the 17 kit this season but will not be available for our match against Queen’s Park.

Motherwell will continue their pre-season preparations this evening.

Following last weekend’s 1-1 stalemate with SWPL2 side Boroughmuir Thistle, the women of steel return to action in a behind-closed doors friendly with Hearts at Dalziel Park.

The Tale of the Tape 

Motherwell

Paul Brownlie’s side will be on the hunt for their first victory of their 2023/24 pre-season campaign, following weekend’s meeting with Boroughmuir Thistle, where Bailley Collins’ 90th-minute equaliser cancelled out Boroughmuir’s early second half opener to secure the striker’s first non-competitive goal for the club.

Motherwell have also faced encounters with SWPL2 promotion-chasers Gartcairn and defending Scottish-Cup champions Celtic, as they continue to prepare for the opening weekend of the 2023/24 SWPL1 calendar.

The women of steel will have a full squad available for this evening’s encounter, minus the midweek acquisition of Hannah Cunningham, who signed a permanent deal following a short trial period at the club.

Hearts

After surpassing local rivals Hibs, Hearts established themselves as a top-four SWPL1 side last season, with their last competitive victory coming in a 2 -1 Edinburgh derby win at the Oriam.

The Jambos are two games into their pre-season preparations, with encounters against Dundee United and Durham Women both taking place behind closed doors.

Like Motherwell, Hearts have been prolific in acquiring their new additions early in the summer transfer window, with Brodie Greenwood, Kathleen McGovern, Carly Girasoli, Katie Lockwood, Lizzie Waldie, and Esther Morgan all making the switch to Gorgie.

How to follow the action

Supporters can follow this evening’s encounter on Twitter @motherwellwomen, with a full report of the action available post-match.

Callum Slattery is delighted with his start to his season so far. 

The English midfielder scored against Queen of the South and can see the team beginning to pick up the match sharpness game by game.

Slattery knows how important these games are, especially in front of the home crowd at Fir Park for the first time in the 2023/24 campaign.

Assistant Manager Stephen Frail speaks to the press for the first time since joining in March.

Frail discusses how his tenure has went so far and the excitement that the team have about the prospect of playing back in front of the home fans.

The number two also tells us about the importance of progression in the Viaplay Cup competition this season.

We take on Queen’s Park in our first home match of the 2023/24 season. 

Kick-off is 5.15pm at Fir Park.

How to follow the game

We would like to make coverage for the match as clear as possible for our supporters, given recent reports.

The match will be shown exclusively live on Viaplay Sports, with the kick-off time remaining at 5.15pm. Coverage will begin on air at 5pm.

Tickets can be purchased online.

Additional information

SEASON TICKET HOLDERS

If you are a season ticket holder, you can purchase your own seat(s) for the match.

To get yours, just log in to your account at tickets.motherwellfc.co.uk. Once logged in, your reserved ticket(s) will be in your account menu and will be uploaded to your card. You will not be required to collect a physical ticket if you purchase your season ticket seat(s).

For help, call 01698 333333 or email tickets@motherwellfc.co.uk.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Please note there will no cash turnstiles on the day of the game. The ticket office will be open for sales from 1.30pm on the 22nd July.

The Centenary Suite and Cooper Suite will open for refreshments and bar food pre-match from 2.30pm, with both bars open following the match. No reservations required and both home and away fans are welcome.

Kit Watch

We will be wearing our home kit for the match against Queen’s Park.

Team News

Calum Butcher will remain sidelined for a number of weeks.

Ricki Lamie will be absent due to his second yellow card against Queen of the South.

Motherwell’s fortunes

With a win and gaining a further two points against Queen of the South on Tuesday night, Motherwell sit on five points after two games.

A win against Queen’s Park would see Motherwell go three points clear of second place East Fife, who don’t play this weekend.

With East Fife due to play Queen of the South on Tuesday night, the Doonhamers could only be a point behind the Fifers going into the game meaning all three teams could qualify top of the group.

Opposition report

Queen’s Park narrowly missed out on winning the Championship last term, losing out to Dundee on the final day of the season.

Since then, manager Owen Coyle has departed the club for India, with Robin Veldman taking the reigns at the club.

Queen’s were beaten by East Fife on penalties in their first match of the season.

There have been seven incomings thus far, including former Queen of the South talisman Ruari Paton. The Irishman scored 26 goals of Queen of the South last season, with former Motherwell man Dom Thomas also within the Queen’s ranks.

We have entered a new partnership with Phoenix Specialist Solutions.

The brand will feature on the back of the first-team home and away shirts for a minimum of two years.

Phoenix Specialist Solutions are a local company that specialise in street lighting, road marking and traffic signs.

“We are delighted that we can take our relationship to the next level with Motherwell Football Club as their new back of shirt sponsor,” managing director David Clark commented.

“As my family and I are all Motherwell supporters, it is with great delight that we are now partners with the club, and I look forward to a successful season on the pitch.”

“We are delighted to welcome Phoenix Specialist Solutions to our partnership portfolio and thank David for his support of the club. Through this agreement and other partnerships, we have surpassed the club’s commercial revenue figure to date,” Motherwell Football Club Commercial Director added.

“It is wonderful to partner with another local business who are truly invested in the club’s long-term success, and I very much look forward to working with them.”