Dan Casey emerged as the hero for Motherwell, netting twice to secure a 2-1 victory over Dundee in Michael Wimmer's first home match as manager. The triumph at Fir Park marked a winning debut for Wimmer, who made strategic changes to invigorate his team. Motherwell's energetic start gave them the upper hand, but their intensity waned before the hour mark, allowing Dundee a chance to challenge.
Wimmer implemented four changes for his managerial bow, opting for a 3-4-3 formation that set Motherwell on the offensive from the start. Stephen O'Donnell led a counter-attack early in the match, forcing Dundee's goalkeeper Jon McCracken into a significant save. Motherwell looked more forward-thinking and aggressive in their press throughout the first half. Wing-backs Tom Sparrow and Dom Thompson took calculated risks, while Lennon Miller and Callum Slattery thrived in advanced roles alongside centre-forward Luke Armstrong.
Despite their dominant first half, Motherwell's pace slowed, providing Dundee an opportunity to claw back after halftime. Simon Murray equalised for Dundee with their sole shot on target in the 79th minute, sliding Charlie Reilly's ball across goal into the net after surviving a lengthy VAR review for offside. However, Casey responded five minutes later, executing a striker's finish to volley home a cross from substitute Harry Paton, securing the victory for Motherwell.
Motherwell's defense held firm during seven minutes of stoppage time, ensuring no major scares and sealing the win. This result ended a six-match losing streak for Motherwell and moved them just two points shy of the top six in the standings. Although Dundee had moments where they pushed forward and challenged Motherwell's back three, they struggled to create substantial chances, ultimately suffering their fifth consecutive defeat. Dundee now sits precariously just three points above bottom club St Johnstone.
Leave a Reply