Hibs will look to consolidate their current fourth position in the Scottish Premiership with victory over Motherwell this evening knowing a victory edges them 7 points clear of closest rivals Hearts in the table.
A win over the Lanarkshire side could see Neil Lennon’s men close the gap on Aberdeen to just 5 points but they’ll be wary of the Steelmen who fought back from 2 goals down in the corresponding fixture in September albeit it was a comeback inspired by Louie Moult who’s since departed for Preston North End.
Vital Quotes:
Neil Lennon: ‘The team is prepared, we’re looking forward to the game. Motherwell look like they’ve found their mojo again since the break. They got a great result at the weekend, and they’re in and around it, so an important game for us to win.
‘We’ve had three tough away games, where we’ve played particularly well in the last two. We were excellent against Celtic on Saturday, and I don’t like losing, but the performance gave me a lot of encouragement.
‘Mentally and physically, they were strong, and they were unlucky not to come away with something against the champions, which you don’t say very often.
‘We’re in decent form. A win would really bolster us. Three points are really important at this stage of the season.’
Hibernian Team News:
Hibs could have new signing Florian Kamberi available should international clearance come through in time however Marvin Bartley is still a doubt.
There may be a first start for Australian striker Jamie McLaren but doubts remain over whether Simon Murray will be included in the match day squad with interest in the player from Dundee.
Player to watch: Martin Boyle
The winger has been ‘Off the Boyle’ recently and will look to turn in another good performance against ‘Well after scoring the winner at Fir Park the last time the sides met.
Can be unplayable at times but has become rather predictable of late.
Motherwell Team News:
Influential striker Ryan Bowman is out with a fractured cheekbone whilst manager Stephen Robinson is also without Ellis Plummer, George Newell and Elliot Frear.
Player to watch: Trevor Carson
The Ex Hartlepool goalkeeper has been the subject of two failed bids by Celtic this week and if he’s in goals then Motherwell will have a fine last line of defence.
Match Facts & Stats
Motherwell have won only 2 matches in their last 12 whilst Hibs form has been only marginally better with 3 wins from 12.
Match Prediction:
Hibs home form has been a source of irritation to many fans and they tend to blow hot & cold.
An early goal should see Hibs win but the draw looks the best bet of the evening. 1-1.
Next Fixtures:
Hibs travel to Ibrox to face Rangers in a match which will have plenty going on!
