The women of steel are within touching distance of a long-awaited top-six finish in the SWPL table but must get over the line this weekend.
Momentum has remained with the North Lanarkshire side since the start of 2025, earning four-straight victories, including two comprehensive wins on the road against both Dundee United and Montrose. The hosts remain in control of their own destiny, knowing victory will be enough to ensure Motherwell achieve a top-six SWPL finish for the first-time in their history.
Midfielder Laura McCartney is relishing the opportunity in East Kilbride.
“It’s a massive chance to confirm top-six this weekend,” McCartney said.
“Having been in the position we’ve wanted to be in for much of the season, we’ve always had our eye set on the first opportunity to finally get over the line.
“We were incredibly frustrated to fall short in the previous two campaigns, but on reflection, our consistency across the season wasn’t at the standard we knew it needed to be. Thistle are an excellent team, who have continued to battle us closely this season, so we knew we had to be resolute in our performances.
“We’ve worked tirelessly since the end of last season to strengthen and put ourselves in the ascendency, so the visit of Aberdeen this weekend is our opportunity to cement our status as a top-six team in the SWPL.”
Motherwell will be looking to replicate their previous displays over the Dons, after remaining unbeaten in three consecutive victories. Paul Brownlie’s side coasted to a six-nil victory last November, with Louisa Boyes completing her hat-trick under the floodlights of Balmoral Stadium. Despite the unbeaten run, McCartney isn’t expecting an easy afternoon.
“Aberdeen are a strong side,” McCartney explained.
“They have a squad that’s capable of causing problems on the counter if you’re not performing at the right level, so we have to make sure that we are preparing in the correct manner.
“There is a really positive feeling amongst the squad at the moment. We’ve had a really positive week on the training pitch, the atmosphere is high and we are all motivated to continue our positive run.
“We know there will be a sense of the occasion with a chance to finally earn top-six, but we are putting that to the back of our minds and focusing on getting the three-points and the rest will take care of itself.”
Sunday’s encounter will feature free transport to East Kilbride, with the Well Society overseeing a pre-match event in the Fir Park centenary suite before that match. Buses will depart Fir park at 3PM ahead of a 4PM kick-off at K-Park. Tickets for the coach can be claimed here:
“We are excited by the prospect of a larger crowd at K-Park,” McCartney added.
“The support throughout the season has been incredible, but to hopefully claim top-six with an increased support at K-Park would be a brilliant experience.
“We are looking forward to seeing you all in East Kilbride this weekend, and hopefully put in a strong performance that is reflective of your support so far this season.”