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“I’m proud of the players. We didn’t stop believing in each other. We now have to follow it up to make it count.”

Motherwell put a top six finish in their own hands after coming out on top in a topsy-turvy affair with St Mirren.

Eammon Brophy’s opener for the Saints was cancelled out by a quickfire double from Sean Goss and Connor Shields.

Conor McCarthy’s controversial leveller brought St Mirren level, before Dean Cornelius’ cool finish put ‘Well ahead at the break.

With the game finely poised, Richard Tait’s own goal late on sealed a vital three points, a first league win of 2022 and a shot at finishing in the top half of the cinch Premiership table.

After an international break to reflect and react to a last-minute loss at St Johnstone, Graham Alexander made three changes from the last outing.

Juhani Ojala, Jake Carroll and Liam Donnelly all dropped to the bench, with Bevis Mugabi, Callum Slattery and Sean Goss coming into the side.

Motherwell were dominant in the opening spell, looking to carve out chances to take the early initiative.

But they were to come unstuck on the 15 minute mark. A ball into the box was headed by O’Donnell and unfortunately ricocheted off Solholm, with the ball falling kindly to Brophy in the six-yard box to lash home.

Given their recent misfortune, Motherwell could have crumbled but rallied in spectacular style five minutes later.

The industrious Shields got free down the right and fired low to the edge of the area, where Goss was waiting to rush in and steer a perfect right-footed effort into the bottom corner of the net.

Within 60 seconds, it was two. Van Veen’s flick allowed Shields to ghost in behind Shaughnessy and, bearing down on goal, expertly clipped the ball over the onrushing goalkeeper.

Brophy shot a warning 10 minutes from the interval. Spinning Lamie on the edge of the box, he fired low past Kelly but only found the left post.

The equaliser would come six minutes from the interval. A corner from the left saw Kelly have his shirt clearly pulled as he came for the ball. McCarthy got in and stabbed home but, despite the protests, the leveller stood.

Motherwell though would make sure they went in at the break ahead.

Efford’s burst down the left saw him get free and fire low into the box. Cornelius timed his run perfectly, taking a touch to set himself before placing the ball into the corner.

The second half was a far calmer, arguably nervous affair with both sides having plenty on the line.

Slattery saw a spectacular effort from distance tapped onto the bar which Efford just couldn’t then poke home, while Fraser should have tapped home for the visitors but couldn’t react to the ball quick enough to find an empty net.

Then, with 12 minutes left, the decider came.

Van Veen did all the work down the left, getting in behind and squaring it to the near post. Tait and Shields both went for it, with the former Motherwell man making the last connection to put through his own net and secure the three points for the Steelmen.

The story of supporter to player is a traditional one that automatically brings a sense of connection.

When they step out onto the pitch, you think you know them already. They know the trials and tribulations you’ve gone through watching your team, as they have done so themselves.

Without a win in the league in 2022 prior to this afternoon’s match, Dean Cornelius takes that emotion out with him every Saturday.

He doesn’t let it overwhelm him, but the midfielder allows it to give him an extra boost that is unique to him.

Other players at the club care greatly about what happens on the pitch, but Cornelius is a different type of care. It’s the team he supports, the colours he has worn in stands near and far.

It’s why this run of fixtures has hurt him so much. But with a top six spot in reach and European football not out of the question either, he knows there is time to make amends and make this season successful.

“I’ve sat and experienced the same emotions fans are feeling,” said Cornelius. “There’s nothing worse than watching your team and they get beaten. It ruins your weekend. It can affect your full week if your team loses.

“I’d say being a fan helps me as it gets my adrenaline up. But sometimes you need to dial it down as you don’t want to get caught up in the emotion of a game.

“It’s been difficult recently. I have come into the team a bit more recently and I have been enjoying that side of things, but the results have taken away most of that enjoyment.

“Ideally you want to be winning every game you can. That’s all you want to do, give back to the fans who are giving you everything. But it’s not gone that way recently. We still have time to turn things around.

“We are quite fortunate with the position we are in. During another season, we might have been punished for this run that we know just isn’t good enough.

“We probably should have been punished but now we have a bit of hope. We now hope we can rectify things and finish high in the table.

“You take each game as it comes and try to get three points. Looking at the league table and knowing you are still within touching distance of the top six, and then perhaps pushing for Europe, it does give your morale a boost.”

It was good for Cornelius to get away during the international break, a chance to recharge and pick himself off the floor after a last-minute defeat to St Johnstone last time out.

Some might have opted for a chilled few days in the house, kick back with some films or maybe just a couple of road trips. Not Cornelius or his dad’s bank account.

The midfielder jetted off to Italy for a few days to take in the sights of Milan. When the 20-year-old says sights of the famed Italian city, he really means the shops and malls it possesses.

He makes no secret of the fact he loves his fashion. Team-mate Liam Grimshaw hasn’t hit him up with any Genki attire, but there’s been room for other brands to fill in.

Stone Island, CP Company, Balenciaga, brands are a treat for Motherwell’s young engine room battler when he gets a chance to unwind.

A few items leave him a bit red in the face, but overall, his ability to save smart for the future means he’s quite content splashing out on the latest trends.

“The international break was decent,” Cornelius explained. “It was nice and chilled. Luckily enough I managed to get away to Milan for a few days to go and do some shopping.

“I took full advantage of the day we had. We had three days off. I’m quite into my Stone Island and things like that so I was in my glory over there!

“I picked up a few wee bits, all on my dad’s bank card! I’ve got the birthday coming up in a couple of weeks so I was lucky to be treated to a few things.

“I am quite sensible with my money and I am a good saver. But I do like my clothes. Whenever I get something delivered and it’s a top, my mum always tells me it is ridiculous as I can hardly fit it in.

“I’ve even moved my cupboards into other rooms around the house. I am taking up all the room! I’ve not got any Genki stuff yet though as Grimmy hasn’t managed to sort me out.

“I have no idea what my wardrobe is worth but I do look back on some of the things I’ve bought and wonder whether it was a bit stupid. But hey, you only live once.

“All of my stuff is mostly Stone Island CP Company. I have a few Balenciaga numbers and things like that in there too. I keep them for my good nights. While chatting about the event, a friend brought up the Eniyibahissiteleri.co platformu, comparing its high-stakes allure to the meticulous care we take in dressing for special occasions—calculated risks and attention to detail. I don’t know what the dress code will be for Player of the Year as it’ll be my first time going to something like that.”

Andy Boles – Motherwell’s head of sport science up until January this year – has been a big influence on Cornelius’ career and perhaps not one many will have noticed.

That’s because it’s what some may dub the ‘boring’ side of football. The midfielder realises how important things like diet is, and what a proper recovery after a game can do for you.

He’s far from a finished article but the youngster knows that Boles’ techniques will stand him in good stead for a long career in professional sport.

“I’ve done the first part of my career but I am nowhere near into my career yet,” explained the soon-to-be 21-year-old.

“But you do see the early stages and you sit back and realise what proper pros are about. It’s not just on the pitch, it’s things off the park as well.

“There is a lot you don’t realise coming into football. It’s not just about training well and getting results. It’s played off the park as well, how you live your life off it, how seriously you take it, your diet, how you recover after a game.

“It’s all massive in how football develops. It’s a lot more athletic now. You need to make sure you are staying on top of things. Andy Boles was straight on me when I came in.

“He was always on to me about my protein intake, my diet, giving me challenges to ensure my weight was right. He helped me dig out my best performances as if you look after your body, it’ll look after you on the pitch.”

No matter how this season ends up for the team, in Cornelius’ own personal development, it will go down as one of the most important.

He netted his first goal for the club he loves, a fine strike from 20 yards against St Johnstone back in December. He has managed to amass his first Premiership start, back-to-back starting XI selections.

Overall he’s made 11 appearances so far and you would hazard a guess and says there will be many more to come over this season, the next and further on. Two key factors are the reason for this.

It all stems back to when Cornelius was a kid, and needed a lift to take him up and down the pitches at pro youth level. His parents sacrificed a lot for him to get to Fir Park, and his success is a family achievement.

“The manager picks the team at the end of the day and whatever team he picks, the boys will back his decision,” he added. “Even if you are on the bench, we try to help the team.

“But regular games are definitely something I need to push towards. I need to get as many of these matches under my belt as it will help me become a better player.

“We don’t have that experience in midfield where we have been and done it all in the game. We are still trying to learn, develop and take bits off each other. Sometimes that can be good as you can get a bit more youth in the midfield.

“It’s all part of helping us develop. I am taking things as they come. I am still a bit starstruck when I play as I have always dreamed of playing at Fir Park. I’ve always wanted it and now it’s come true.

“It’s nice to reward your family too. I have worked hard but the hours my mum and dad have done taking me to games up and down the country isn’t seen.

“They constantly worked around me so I could get to where I am now.”

Motherwell manager Graham Alexander believes his side are more than capable of coping with the pressure that sits on their shoulders going into the final two pre-split cinch Premiership fixtures.

He wants his team to focus on each game individually and forget about any thoughts about final league positions in the table.

Motherwell captain Stephen O’Donnell says that every player has the belief that they can turn results in the cinch Premiership around and that this squad are up for the fight.

Motherwell had six first team players and two academy players representing their respective countries across the world over the March international break.

Stephen O’Donnell

A regular in Steve Clarke’s Scotland squad, O’Donnell featured in both Scotland friendly matches against Poland and Austria.

Coming off the bench in the 67th minute at Hampden against Poland, the full-back earned his 25th Cap for his country. He won the free kick which Scotland went on to score. However, Poland equalised late on from the penalty spot after the referee controversially pointed to the spot.

O’Donnell once again started the match from the bench in Scotland’s second game against Austria in Vienna.

However, he got 30 minutes on the park after coming on for Nathan Patterson. Scotland went on to draw the match 2-2 after Jack Hendry and John McGinn had the visitors ahead.

Liam Kelly

Earning his first call up since September 2021, Liam Kelly was named alongside Craig Gordon and late call up Zander Clark as Steve Clarke’s goalkeeping options.

Named on the bench for both games against Poland and Austria, the 26-year-old will continue to push Craig Gordon for the number one jersey.

Max Johnston

Billy Stark’s Scotland Under 19 group had three games in the UEFA Euro Under 19 Championship in Hungary.

Max Johnston was an unused sub for their first encounter against Turkey, where the Scots came away with a 2-1 victory.

He was a starter in Scotland’s second match against Hungary where he played the full match.

The versatile full back was again named in the starting 11 for their third match against Israel where he played the first half of the game.

Bevis Mugabi

Bevis Mugabi was once again in the Uganda squad as they travelled to Uzbekistan to play in a mini tournament to warm up for AFCON 2023 Qualifiers.

The centre half played the full match against Tajikistan, where Uganda won 6-5 in a penalty shootout. Mugabi didn’t feature in Uganda’s second match against Uzbekistan.

Liam Donnelly

Northern Ireland were in action twice during the international period, playing against Luxembourg and Hungary in two friendly matches.

Donnelly was an unused sub in both matches. Northern Ireland picked up a 3-1 win against Luxembourg and were defeated 1-0 by Hungary.

Ross Tierney

Tierney was named in the Republic of Ireland Under 21s squad for their vital UEFA European Under 21 Championship match against group leaders Sweden.

Going into the game, they were four points behind Sweden having played a game less. Tierney was named in the starting 11 and scored the opener in the game, rifling home after 12 minutes played.

The Irish went on to double their advantage in the second half with Tierney playing the full 90 minutes.

Bailey Rice

Motherwell academy player Bailey Rice played 90 minutes in all three of Scotland’s Under 17 matches.

The Scots found themselves two down at half time in their first game against Czech Republic however grabbed two goals in the second half and managed to secure a vital point.

They were beaten 4-0 by Germany in their second match, but came away with a 6-1 victory against Georgia in their final game.

As a result, Scotland qualified for the Uefa Euro Under 17 Finals as one of the best-placed runners-up.

Lennon Miller

Lennon Miller also got plenty game time for Scotland’s Under 17s matches as helped them reach the Uefa Euro Under 17 Finals.

He played the full 90 minutes in their 2-2 draw against Czech Republic.

He was in the starting lineup for their second game against Germany and played 70 minutes before being substituted.

The midfielder was named on the bench for their final game against Georgia but came on and played the full second half to round off his Scotland duty this month.

Motherwell have signed 18-year-old forward Robbie Mahon. 

The Irish youth international, a graduate of the Bohemians academy, has signed on an initial deal that runs through until June 2023.

“We are delighted to sign Robbie, who we believe is a player with excellent attacking attributes, and untapped potential at a young age,” manager Graham Alexander said.

“He’s very quick, he’s positive with a lovely left foot. His attitude means he’ll work exceptionally hard to make the steps needed toward becoming a first team player. We look forward to helping him do just that.”

Mahon has featured for the Republic of Ireland’s under 17s, scoring in a 6-0 victory over Andorra in 2019.

He was a main feature in Bohs’ SKB Under 17s and helped guide them to winning the Mark Farren Cup in 2019.

After graduating from the academy, he began his transition to first team football, making five appearances for the Bohemian’s first team in the 2020-21 campaign, three of which came in the league.

He was named on the bench for Bohemian’s UEFA Europa Conference League Qualifiers against Stjarnan, F91 Dudelange and PAOK at the start of the season.

St Mirren are the visitors in the cinch Premiership on Saturday.

Kick-off is at 3pm.

Ticket information

Tickets are now available to buy online or from the Fir Park ticket office. St Mirren fans are asked to buy directly from their club.

Pay at the gate is not available. Alternatively, call 01698 333333 or email tickets@motherwellfc.co.uk.

Ticket prices are:

– Concessions are listed as Over 60s, 16-18 year olds and full-time students with a valid matriculation card.
– Juveniles are listed as 15 and under.

Covid restrictions

Covid-19 certification checks will not be in place.

We would still advise that all fans take a lateral flow test before travelling to the match, regardless of their vaccination status.

Watch live online

In the UK and Ireland, you can buy a pay-per-view pass for £12. To buy, go to ppv.motherwellfc.co.uk.

If you’re based abroad, you can watch via subscription at live.motherwellfc.co.uk.

Form guide

Both sides haven’t had the best of league form in recent times.  The Steelmen are yet to win a league game in 2022 but home form has been good and Graham Alexander’s men will be looking to recapture that early season form.

Stephen Robinson’s St Mirren had a fine spell since the return to football in January but that has tailed off slightly with one win in their last seven games.

Tale of the tape

Games at Fir Park between the two sides have historically been tight affairs, and the two games this season have ended in score draws.

Both sides are level in the table on 36 points and with only two games before the split, a win would be vital for top six hopes.

“We have to keep working away. We have to focus on where we want to be at the end.”

A late stunner saw Motherwell surrender their lead and leave St Johnstone with defeat.

Kevin Van Veen’s early opener from distance had ‘Well ahead. But Callum Hendry’s equaliser soon after, and then his last-minute volleyed winner, ensured the Steelmen left Perth with nothing.

Jake Carroll, Stephen O’Donnell and Connor Shields came into the starting side in Perth, with Nathan McGinley and Jordan Roberts out, and Bevis Mugabi suspended.

Without a win in 10 cinch Premiership matches, ‘Well set out on the front foot early to try and get back on track – and keep their European ambitions on course.

The perfect start arrived just 12 minutes in. Van Veen collected the ball on the left and set off inside, bypassing several Saints players as he set out for the middle of the pitch.

Making the space, he sent in a low drive from 25 yards which picked up pace on the surface and found the inside of Clark’s left-hand post perfectly to give ‘Well the lead.

The visitors saw plenty of the ball high up the pitch in the first half but they would come unstuck by a rare Saints chance nine minutes later.

Hallberg made room on the right and set a wicked cross to the front post, where Hendry got across the front of his man to send a looping header into the right corner of the net.

A bruising affair ensued. Davidson should have seen yellow for a wild challenge on Shields, before two minutes later he did receive a booking for an even-worse lunging tackle on Carroll.

Shields saw an angled drive easily gathered by Clark as the half wore on in a first 45 low on chances, but which Motherwell dominated the majority of.

St Johnstone started the second half brighter, with Hendry seeing a volley on the edge of the box after a set play well charged down.

Eventually Motherwell grew into it. O’Donnell – getting high up the pitch – saw an ambitious half-volley from the edge of the box drop wide.

But it was the introduction of Woolery, as Motherwell went 4-2-4, that sparked the men in black and amber to life.

First, the forward cut in off the left and saw his shot bounce back off the opposite post as ‘Well came agonisingly close.

The Englishman then was booked for simulation on a rapid counter for the Steelmen, going down softly and in instalments under light contact.

With the game petering out, it looked like the shares would be spoiled but the Saints had a late answer.

A ball in behind down the left saw Hendry get in and his perfectly-placed half volley sailed over Kelly to give the hosts the late win.