With the Scottish Premiership edging closer to its annual split, the battle for a top-half finish and a possible European spot is intensifying. Currently, a mere four points divide the sixth and ninth-placed teams, setting the stage for a thrilling showdown in the remaining two fixtures.
Dundee United's recent slender victory in Dingwall ensures they're almost guaranteed a spot in the top half, no matter the outcomes against Hearts and St Johnstone in the upcoming matches. According to data from Opta, the Tangerines have a whopping 99% chance of finishing in the top six, thanks to a solid six-point lead and superior goal difference over rivals St Mirren, Motherwell, and Ross County.
As for Ross County, their chances are slim, sitting at a mere 0.3%. The gap to climb is steep, with a significant deficit in goal difference. Meanwhile, Hearts maintain a slight edge over St Mirren and Motherwell, bolstered by their own goal difference, which potentially acts as a crucial extra point, placing their odds at a favourable 66%.
Yet, the true test comes in the form of Motherwell’s upcoming fixtures. With a challenging visit to Rugby Park on the horizon, followed by a pivotal clash against Hearts at home, the 'Well’s resolve will be put to the test. These encounters could very well decide their fate pre-split.
On another note, St Mirren, fresh from a resounding 5-1 triumph over Kilmarnock, look to carry this momentum against Dundee and then Ross County. Their journey is no less fraught with pressure as they aim to pip Hearts to the post.
Former striker John Sutton, who has adorned the jerseys of Hearts, St Mirren, and Motherwell, shares his insights, celebrating the competitive spirit fostered by the split. According to Sutton, excluding Celtic and Rangers, the league represents a battleground where any team can topple another, underscoring the unpredictable and thrilling nature of Scottish football.
With every match now magnified in importance, Motherwell's ambitions remain boldly alight. As a steadfast supporter of the Steelmen, I'm banking on them not just scraping into the top six but also marching confidently towards potential cup glory and European nights. History is littered with tales of underdogs and comebacks—qualities Motherwell embodies.
To close off today's analysis on a lighter note, here’s a tickler aimed at our rivals: How many Hamilton Academicals fans does it take to change a light bulb? None, they're still trying to figure out how Motherwell always lights up the league!
