In front of a 4500 bumper crowd Stranraer were trying to reach the semi finals of the Scottish cup for the first time in their history.

Early on Stranraer had more possession and it nearly paid off. A Dexi Wingate cross to the back post was met by Moore who's header just shaved the outside of the post. Strong running and alot of skill from Finlayson saw him beat two defenders, then cut inside another and strike the ball straight into Francois Dubourdeau arms. Totally against the run of play, Motherwell took the lead. A Derek Adams cross was deflected into his own net by Fraser Wright. Stranraer almost hit back immediately when Motherwell conceded a free kick just outside the area in Wingate range. The big defender struck it really well and it bought a fine finger tip save from the Motherwell keeper.

Motherwell started to play like a SPL team and Stephen Pearson snatched at an early chance just into the second half blasting his volley well over the bar. Michael Moore then had another great chance to score. Harty played a neat ball into the path of Moore and with only the goalie to beat he made an attempt to round him but this was a mistake as the keeper with aid of the defence managed to smother the ball. The big striker should have shot early but he delayed and Stranraer's best chance had gone. Motherwell realised they better waken up and suddenly the game changed when they doubled their advantage. A Keith Lasley cross caused a keeper/defence mix up and McFadden was on hand to punish the Cleyholers. Stranraer were starting to lose a grip on the game. Motherwell's third was a tad fortunate again. A Dirk Lehmann shot rebounded kindly into the path of Adams and from 8 yards out he made no mistake.

The game started to fizzle out with Derek Adams corner being cleared of the line. The steelmen's fourth came right at the end of the match. Motherwell sub David Cowan crossed for Lehmann who nodded the ball past Hillcoat which rubbed salt into the wound.

STRANRAER MOM- Fraser Wright, he handled James McFadden very well although not quite well enough as the Well starlet received the Tennents Man of the Match award. Dexi Wingate was strong in the midfield area. Ian Harty showed some nice skill and touches throughout the match.

OVERALL SUMMARY- If Stranraer had took there chances it could have been a different outcome. Although all-in all Motherwell deserved their win after a much improved second half performance.

On a another note it was disappointing to see large gaps in the home terracing. You'd think more than 1500 Blues fans would have turned up for a Scottish Cup Quarter Final. Also it was great to see the away end full for a change with Motherwell having probably over 3000 fans packed into Stair Park.