We were almost ahead in the second minute when a flick from Higdon released Murphy but he could only slip a shot just wide of the post.

The game was going from end to end and Tade blasted over for Inverness while another flick from Higdon ended with Law sliding a shot wide.

Inverness had their best effort on 18 minutes when a Foran drive from 20 yards hit the post with Randolph beaten. The former Motherwell man had another chance minutes later when a Tade knock down set him up but he could only blast over.

Motherwell took the lead on 25 minutes, it was the culmination of a sweeping passing move which ended up with Hateley sending Humphrey clear on the right and his shot at the back post was volleyed in by Hammell.

Three minutes later it was two nil, again it was sweeping move ending with Law sending Murphy clear and the striker kept his cool to slide the ball under Esson from close range.

Just before the break Inverness hit woodwork again when a Tansey free kick crashed off the post. Hammell almost scored his own second as the whistle was about to blow but he was denied by the body of Esson at close range.

Motherwell made a quick start to the second period with Law producing a great save from Esson after he had cut in from the left. Then the midfielder had another shot which sailed over the bar.

Inverness then came into the game and Foran had a couple of efforts wide before Motherwell made it three with 13 minutes to go. The third goal was a stunning strike from Keith Lasley who hammered a 20 yard shot high into the top corner to seal a perfect afternoon.

While it is easy to get carried away after only one game there needs to be some perspective put on this performance. With the starting eleven we will be a match for anyone but a look at the bench shows we need to strengthen before the end of August.

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