By grabar
February 3 2009

Motherwell finally got the Fourth Cup tie at Inverurie out of the way at the fifth attempt and progressed as 3-0 winners The game only went ahead after the referee had allowed the lines to be cleared and painted orange. Otherwise the pitch was covered in snow thanks to a snow shower in the middle of the afternoon. The game was also attended by the First Minister, Alex Salmond, who was in the Corporate seats in the “Main Stand”. The local MSP saw his constituents fall a goal behind before he was settled into his seat. Motherwell took the lead in 90 secs when Jim O’Brien swung in a free kick from the left wing. The ball was met by the head of the unmarked John Sutton who beat the goalie from only 6 yards out. The local Locos put up a great fight and despite Well making a number of chances in the remainder of the first half it was still one nil at half time. Two goals in the opening twenty minutes put paid to any hopes of a cup shock. O’Brien was the provider for the second when his near post cross was headed home by David Clarkson at the near post.  The third came on 67 minutes when Stephen Craigan fired a low cross into the six yard box and John Sutton added his own second with a simple tap in at the far post. This was a very professional performance from Motherwell as they progressed to take on St. Mirren on Saturday at Fir Park. They showed their Highland League opponents every respect as they chased the ball down at all times and put in some serious tackles!  This was a unique experience for both players and fans, having the opportunity to travel to a Highland League ground and stand (or sit) so close to the pitch once again……