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On Saturday 29 March, Motherwell will travel to Aberdeen for the first of three crucial matches leading into the split.

The atmosphere is expected to be electric, as Aberdeen have sold out their home section due to a special discounted ticket initiative.

Meanwhile, the Steelmen will also enjoy a full away section, with more than 700 Motherwell fans making the trip to support Michael Wimmer’s team.

“The support from our fans means a great deal to everyone in the changing room,” Kofi Balmer stated.

“This season, there have been several instances where our fans have turned out in large numbers, and we will never take that for granted. The trip to Aberdeen is certainly longer than usual, but that hasn’t dampened their enthusiasm.

“We’re at the business end of the season, and everyone is aware of the importance of these fixtures. We’re not getting ahead of ourselves or thinking too much about our season ambitions. The manager has been clear on the one game at a time approach.

“The backing of our supporters is crucial. Aberdeen will have a large crowd on Saturday as well, so having our fans there will be a confidence boost.

“On behalf of all the players, I want to thank you for your incredible support. But we also know those who aren’t making the journey will also be backing us from home. We have been working hard this week to try and be as prepared for this challenge as possible.

“Safe travels to everyone making the journey, and we’ll see you there.”

Motherwell faced an unfortunate reality check in their maiden matchday in the top-six of the Scottish Women’s Premier League, after being overcome by the attacking pressure of title-chasers Rangers, and forced to concede defeat at K-Park. 

“Last weekend was a reality check for the full squad,” Head Coach Paul Brownlie said.

“We understood the magnitude of the task ahead of us when we achieved our place in the top-six. Facing full-time sides on a weekly basis requires a strong mentality, especially when the other five-sides are all battling for the league title.

“We have demonstrated the capabilities within the squad against the strongest sides in the league, but the opening game against Rangers clearly fell below the standards we set collectively as a group.

“We couldn’t establish our rhythm in the game, and in those moments; teams like Rangers can pick you apart with the attacking quality at their disposal. We have to learn from it, we can’t just sit and reflect on the result, we are working hard on the training pitch to prepare for the fixtures ahead.”

After comfortably securing their top-six place and status as the best part-time team in the country, the squad have sought to surpass their initial end of season objectives, by setting additional goals.

“We’ve set additional target for the squad to achieve,” Brownlie added.

“We’ll keep these internally, but after reaching our season-long objectives of a place in the top-six and the Scottish Cup Semi-Final, we wanted to continue to build upon that motivation from the squad, and continually push their limits.

“We have a really honest and committed group of players. Immediately after full-time against Rangers, they wanted to get straight back onto the training pitch to put things right.

“We have another nine-league games remaining, and we are treating each one as a final. That has to be the mentality and approach within the squad, especially as we build up to another competitive fixture against Hibs this weekend.”

Sunday’s visitors will be keen to swiftly rebuild their confidence after a rampant Rangers side drilled five past the Edinburgh-outfit in the Sky Sports League Cup Final at Fir Park last weekend. The league leaders will head to East Kilbride looking to maintain their two-point lead in the SWPL table, but Brownlie insists that the squad are capable of a momentous result.

“Hibs will be an incredibly tough test, but one we are ready for,” Brownlie explained.

“They are top of the league for a reason, and will be heading to K-Park with a point to prove after the defeat in the Sky Sports League Cup Final.

“We performed well in our previous meeting in Edinburgh. We looked sharper and unfortunate not to capitalise on spells of dominance in the game. Hibs were clinical when the chances fell their way, and ultimately that’s why they are top of the league.

“If we start on the front-foot and are clinical in the final-third, we can achieve a momentous result. We hope to see you all there supporting the team on.”

Motherwell return from the March international break with a trip to Pittodrie to face Aberdeen on Saturday 29 March. 

Kick off is 3pm.

How to follow the game

Tickets for the match are £10 for those over 12 years of age, with Under 12’s free.

We are limited to only 100 Under 12 tickets. This will be first come, first served, either at the ticket office or by calling 01698 333 333 only.

Once the 100 under 12 tickets are gone, they will be £5.

The tickets for this fixture are physical, so they can only be posted out or collected at Fir Park. The last date for postage will be the 25th of March.

To get the free under 12 ticket, this needs to be purchased with an adult ticket.

Tickets are now on sale here.

With Aberdeen offering £10 tickets for the match on the 29th of March, we are looking to encourage as many supporters as possible to travel.

We are therefore running a coach to the match.

The bus will leave from outside the Cooper Suite at 10am and return straight after the match. The price per person is £25 and your place can be secured here.

Kit Watch

We will be wearing our third kit for this match.

Squad Update

Luke Armstrong missed our last match against St Mirren, however is now available for selection.

There are no new injury concerns.

Motherwell’s Fortunes

Motherwell have only had one game in the last three weeks, and that was a 2-2 draw with St Mirren. Despite going 2-0 down, Michael Wimmer’s side showed real character to fight their way back into the match.

Callum Slattery continued his fine run of form, scoring his first goals under the new manager. That result leaves the Steelmen well in the hunt for a top-six spot.

Motherwell have played Aberdeen twice this season, and it’s one win each. Aberdeen took the bragging rights in September, winning 2-1, although keeper Mitov prevented Motherwell from salvaging a point. In January, the Steelmen won 2-0 thanks to goals from Ewan Wilson and Tawanda Maswanhise.

Opposition Report

Aberdeen have had a rollercoaster of a season under Jimmy Thelin. The season started off incredibly, with Aberdeen only losing one of their first 18 games.

Following the November international break, the season has changed for the Dons, who have won two of their last 19 league games. Despite this, the Dons are fourth in the table, just one point behind Hibs in third. Only six points separate third from seventh in the congested league table.

Kevin Nisbet has been finding the back of the net of late, with the forward currently on ten goals for the season. He also received a call-up to the Scotland national side as a result of recent form, which is five goals and two assists in his last seven games.

Pope Habib Gueye was the main man for the first part of the season prior to his injury in September. He has now returned to action and will be looking to add to his seven goals this season.

We had six players away on international duty this month. Here’s how they got on.

Lennon Miller

Lennon Miller was an unused substitute for both of Scotland’s games against Greece. A 1-0 victory in Greece was followed up with a disappointing 3-0 defeat at Hampden.

As a result, Scotland are now relegated to League B in the Nations League.

Kai Andrews

Kai Andrews wasn’t involved in Wales’ 3-1 win over Kazakhstan, nor was he involved in their 1-1 draw against North Macedonia.

Kofi Balmer

Kofi Balmer was an unused substitute for Northern Ireland’s 1-1 draw with Switzerland in Belfast.

In their second match, Northern Ireland travelled to Sweden. Balmer was an unused substitute.

Tawanda Maswanhise

Tawanda Maswanhise was named amongst the substitutes in Zimbabwe’s first match against Benin. After going 2-0 down in the first-half, Zimbabwe fought back, and the game ended in a 2-2 draw. Maswanhise was introduced to the action in the 85th minute.

The winger started from the bench in their second match against Nigeria. Once again, he was substituted on with five minutes to play. Nigeria were 1-0 up going into the closing stages, but thanks to a Maswanhise assist, they drew 1-1.

Ewan Wilson

Ewan Wilson started from the bench in Scotland’s Under 21 friendly against the Republic of Ireland. The new-look side produced a dominant display, winning 2-0 on the night. Wilson came on just before the hour mark, with 11 players making their Scotland Under 21s debut, including former Motherwell academy player Bailey Rice.

In their second match, Wilson was named in the starting 11. He came off at the half time interval with Scotland trailing 3-0 to Iceland. Scotland went on to lose the match 6-1.

Zander McAllister

Scotland’s Under 17s faced off against North Macedonia in their first of three matches this month. In an end-to-end game, the match finished 2-2. Zander McAllister started and played 73 minutes on the right-hand side.

In their second match, McAllister was named amongst the substitutes against Romania. He came on in the 50th minute of the match, with Scotland winning 2-0.

McAllister was once again on the bench against Liechtenstein in Scotland’s third match but this time didn’t feature. With Scotland 5-0 up at half time, they went on to top their group thanks to an 8-0 win.

The Motherwell youth academy is expanding and we are recruiting coaching staff to join. 

Working closely with the highly experienced Motherwell coaching staff through regular in-service training, there will be opportunities to progress within the club.

We are looking for someone who can inspire and motivate players, has good communication skills, good knowledge of the game and has high standards.

The candidates must be reliable, ambitious, creative and be positive role models for the players. A minimum SFA C-License will be required.

If you are interested or would like further information, please contact paul.brownlie@motherwellfc.co.uk

Motherwell will return to action to face league leaders Hibernian in the second post-split fixture at K-Park on Sunday. 

Looking to redeem themselves following a frustrating opening top-six display against Rangers, the women of steel will return to league action this weekend, as they welcome league leaders Hibernian to East Kilbride.

The showdown in South Lanarkshire will be key for the squad, as they look to get off the mark in the top-six.

The Tale of the Tape 

Motherwell 

Paul Brownlie’s side will be firmly focused on redemption after a frustrating and thought-provoking defeat to Rangers just under a fortnight ago. The women of steel battled hard throughout the early stages, and were unfortunate not to receive a penalty-kick, as Louisa Boyes was aggressively brought down by the Rangers goalkeeper the penalty area, but Rangers attacking prowess soon shone through, as they coasted to a comfortable advantage.

The tests won’t come much easier for the women of steel, as they turn their attention to league leaders Hibernian this weekend.

Motherwell will have a strengthened line-up this weekend, as Rangers loanees Sophie Black and striker Eilidh Austin both return to contention after being ineligible in the last matchday to face against their parent club.

Hibernian

The visitors head to South Lanarkshire in fine form, sitting comfortably at the top of the SWPL table, two-points clear of nearest rivals Rangers in second. The Hibees will head to K-Park keen to rectify their performance after conceding the Sky Sports League Cup Final to Rangers last weekend.

Ticket Information 

Adult – £8

Concession – £3

Under-11s – FREE TO ENTER

Motherwell will face Glasgow City in the Semi Final of the Scottish Cup on Saturday 26 April following confirmation from the Scottish FA. 

The women of steel secured their place in the final-four after defeating SWPL2 side Boroughmuir Thistle in the previous round.

Paul brownlie’s side will face SWPL title-chasers Glasgow City in the penultimate matchday, with kick-off at 12.15PM.

Ticket information will be communicated to supporters in due course.

Representatives from the Club and Well Society Board paid tribute to former Motherwell player and Hall of Famer Davie Cooper, 30 years on from his passing.

Cooper sadly passed away on 23 March 1995 at the age of just 39.

There was representation from all of Cooper’s former clubs, including Clydebank and Rangers, alongside representation from the Scottish FA.

After a short speech at his memorial in Hamilton, all wreaths were laid, and a moment of silence took place to remember the late, great Cooper.

“Davie Cooper was one of the all-time Scottish greats,” Brian Caldwell said.

“Everyone remembers the sheer class and entertainment he brought on a football pitch, but he was also a gentleman off it. He was taken far too soon, and this commemorative gathering 30 years on from his passing is an excellent opportunity to stop and remember him.

“It was excellent to see such a wonderful turnout from his former clubs and country, with his former teammates coming together to pay tribute.”

Born in Hamilton on 25 February 1956, it is fair to say Davie Cooper would become one of the most popular post-war Scottish football players ever.

He joined Motherwell in 1989 for £50,000, having lost his place at Rangers amid the bankrolled Graeme Souness era, and seemingly near the end of a most successful career. It was not to be and in his twilight years at Fir Park, he revealed himself to be a quite extraordinary player, whose guile and skill more than made up for his advancing years.

The then-Motherwell manager Tommy McLean signed the prodigious and obvious talent for a relatively small fee, which history will tell you now was a stroke of genius. McLean had chased Cooper for some time, knowing fine that he would be the cherry on top of the workmanlike squad he had built to maintain the clubs’ status in the top flight of Scottish football.

Those who thought Cooper was going to North Lanarkshire merely to play out his years were proved spectacularly wrong as he arguably produced some of the best football of his entire career whilst at Fir Park.

All the wizardry and accuracy that characterised his time at Ibrox seemed undiminished by his veteran status. He was still the master of the dribble and, even more so, the weighted pass. Subtle tricky and endearing, he was a player fans of both sides could warm to.

His debut in claret and amber came at Rugby Park in a midweek League Cup tie in August 1989. His performance was as good any he would produce for the club. Motherwell fans were aghast as Cooper set up three of the four goals the Steelmen scored that evening, as Kilmarnock were brushed aside 4-1.

His first game at Fir Park turned out to be equally entertaining. Cooper again was the main man, being the architect of a 3-1 win over St. Mirren with two goals for Nick Cusack, and a clincher from Stevie Kirk.

He continued to inspire those around him. He was the lynchpin of a terrific showing at Fir Park in September when Dundee were swept aside 3-0 with Cooper scoring his first-ever goal for the Steelmen. Attendances began to rise as the Lanarkshire public warmed to the Hamilton man. When Rangers came calling four days after the Dundee match, that warming grew into unconditional love for the winger.

The big-spending Glasgow giants were humbled as the Steelmen went top of the league, as Cooper combined with another former Ger, Bobby Russell, to create and score the winner on a memorable night under the Fir Park lights.

October saw another Cooper masterclass when Dundee United were defeated in a five-goal thriller. The national press began to speculate on whether Davie should be included in the Scotland squad for a vital upcoming World Cup qualifier against Norway. As it happens, he was included and produced a man of the match performance as the Scots won 3-1 to secure a place at Italia 90.

Domestically, he would score seven times in his first season, a couple of which secured a draw at home to Aberdeen in another pulsating affair as Ne’erday approached. Motherwell finished a comfortable mid-table in a 10-team division, which most fans were happy with, hoping it would be a springboard to success in campaign 1990/91.

Davie was integral to everything Motherwell produced that following season, missing only two league games, scoring another five times as the Steelmen replicated the previous year’s performance with a similar position in the final league table. Where the league form could be labelled workmanlike, the Scottish Cup seemed to spark the players into life.

Cooper inspired a cup run that will never be forgotten around Lanarkshire. He was integral to the exciting victories over Aberdeen, Falkirk and Morton before being suspended for the two semi-final ties against Celtic, largely due to his inability to button his lip with match officials.

Of course, he was back in the side come that wonderful day in May 1991.

His presence and experience undoubtedly gave the confidence to his teammates and the belief that they could lift the Scottish Cup for the first time in 39 years.

That belief turned to reality as goals from Ian Ferguson, Phil O’Donnell, Ian Angus and Stevie Kirk brought joy, not only to the 35,000 Motherwell fans on the slopes of Hampden Park but those with claret and amber in their hearts watching from afar.

Despite approaching his mid-30s, Davie only missed five games of the 50 Motherwell played the following season, scoring five times. Two of these came in a great 2-0 win over St. Mirren at Love Street in early November. He, of course, was also part of the first-ever Motherwell side to take part in European competition on 18 September 1991 in Poland against GKS Katowice. The 2-0 defeat that day was witnessed by a sizeable support from Scotland and would’ve been bigger, had two supporter buses not missed all but ten minutes of the tie.

The second leg witnessed a sublime display from Cooper as he dazzled under the Fir Park floodlights. Over 10,000 fans roared the home side on from the kickoff as the Steelmen looked to overturn the first-leg deficit.

After incessant pressure, the visitors fell behind when a sumptuous pass from Cooper set Kirk up, who finished with aplomb. Early into the second half though, the Steelmen were caught with a breakaway and Katowice equalised on the night briefly silencing the home support.

Back ‘Well roared back with Cooper at the helm, as he crossed first for Nick Cusack to score, and then minutes later for Stevie Kirk to notch his second of the evening. Despite the atmosphere reaching fever pitch, Motherwell failed to score for a fourth time, and we were eliminated on the dreaded away goals rule.

Davie’s final full season at the club was the 1992/93 campaign. However, it proved to be something of a disappointment for the fans, again allowed Coop to display his talents time after time. Incredibly for his age, and position he played, Cooper was the only ever-present Motherwell player that season, turning out in all 46 competitive matches. Indeed, his final goal in our colours came in the April of that season at Fir Park against Celtic, in a memorable 2-0 win over the Glasgow side.

After the summer of 1993, it became apparent that Cooper’s appearances for the club would be mostly from the bench. Indeed, his final sighting in a Motherwell kit was as a substitute in mid-December, contributing to a terrific 3-2 win at Tynecastle Park over an excellent Hearts team, with goals from Tommy Coyne, twice, and Rab McKinnon.

With his chances of regular football at Fir Park diminishing somewhat, Davie decided to continue playing, and more significantly perhaps contributing, to football matches, and returned to serve his first club, Clydebank.

Many had assumed that Cooper’s move to Fir Park would see him treating the move as a form of early retirement. But Davie proved he was bigger and better than that by not only winning a Scottish Cup winner’s medal with Motherwell but also resurrecting his International career. In fact, had he not gone over on his ankle as he ran through Strathclyde Park shortly before the squad was announced, Cooper would’ve been the first-ever Motherwell player to play on the World Cup Finals stage in Italia ’90.

In the 15 months since Davie had left Fir Park, life had been good with Motherwell narrowly losing out in a title fight with Rangers in 1994 and going toe to toe again with the Light Blues the following season eventually finishing runners-up.

However, everything was put into perspective when news broke of Cooper collapsing at Broadwood Stadium in March 1995 whilst filming a television show and coaching youngsters.

The following day as the Motherwell squad and fans were travelling through to Easter Road to take on Hibs in a vital league match, it was confirmed that Davie had passed away of a brain haemorrhage aged just 39.

Given the impact he had had during his time in North Lanarkshire, quite understandably, neither the players nor the fans seemed capable getting themselves up for the game, and the home side ran out comfortable 2-0 winners. It is no exaggeration to say that the whole Scottish nation was both stunned and deeply saddened by his untimely death, as floral tributes were left at Ibrox, Fir Park and Kilbowie in abundance.

The Motherwell FC board decided to name the newly constructed North Stand after him.

Davie Cooper inspired a team of footballers and supporters of this club, giving everything he had for the cause. 165 appearances and 17 goals for Motherwell may be the facts and figures of his time at Fir Park, but they barely scratch the surface of his life and times at the club.

His range of ball skills and sheer entertainment value made him instantly recognisable. Cooper was clearly a match-winner, a skilled craftsman and an almost unique talent. He had a cultured left foot, amazing dribbling skills, precision crosses and truly stunning dead-ball accuracy. He was a player that literally had you off your seat when on the ball, dictating play to his preferences, and his teams’ advantage.

Motherwell has been fortunate to have a list of quite outstanding left wingers throughout history. From Bobby Ferrier, Johnny Aitkenhead and Pat Quinn are just some of the big names to have played in that position through the years.

Cooper rightly deserves his position near the top of such a list for the way he almost single-handedly raised the spirits of the area and the perception of Motherwell Football Club within the game that his contribution is hard to measure subjectively.

Off the pitch, he was a terrific ambassador for the football club and the wider community, contrary to the perceived “Moody Blue” persona which was portrayed during his time at Rangers.

History will dictate that Davie Cooper’s legend is more famed for his stint at Ibrox and although his time with us may have been relatively short, no one could ever question the effect, nor the passion he had for this our club. A modern-day footballing genius and a man who inspired a group to achieve immortality.