Saints started the game the better of the two sides, knocking the ball about well but without really threateningRandolphin the Well goal. The closest they came was when Van Zanten headed over a McGowan cross from 15 yards out.

After the opening fifteen minutes Motherwell started to settle into the game Law combined with Higdon to set up Murphy whose shot from 18 yards was saved by Samson, who was to prove difficult to beat all afternoon.

The keeper then went on to deny Nicky Law when he was clean through, minutes later he pulled off an even better effort when he tipped a Higdon shot wide from close range.

The first timeRandolphwas called into action was two minutes to the break when he gathered a Teale shot struck from 20 yards out. Then just before the break a Hammell cross picked out Higdon whose header fell just inches wide.

The opening stages of the second half was a bit cagey, and it wasn’t until the 64^th minute before another scoring opportunity came along. Once again it was Samson who denied Higdon, this time it was an 18 yard shot from the former Saint.

Samson was busy again stopping Murphy on the break before pulling off another fine diving save to stop a 30 yard thunderbolt from Forbes.

With the fourth official having raised the board indicating a minute would be added Teale fouled Law at the edge of the box. Hateley stepped up and ignored the Manager’s instructions to shift the ball, he shot and the ball soared past Samson to seal the win.

The goal sent the 1001 Well fans in the Stand behind the goal into raptures knowing they were still top of the League and unbeaten in four games with four clean sheets.

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