Wednesday night saw Aberdeen register their first home league win in 2019 with a 3-1 win over Motherwell. With the split fast approaching, now seems the perfect time for Derek McInnes’ side to get the monkey off their back and focus on taking third position from the hands of Kilmarnock.
Aberdeen appeared in total control, as though they were back to their old selves. Throughout Derek McInnes’ reign, one thing they were able to count on was their home form. So often a key element of their success under him, it just hasn’t been the same this campaign.
Goal by goal
The opening goal was somewhat fortuitous. Max Lowe appearing to cross for Sam Cosgrove, instead finding the top corner to net his third goal of the season for Aberdeen. Despite the impressive Jake Hastie clawing Motherwell level with a great finish, the Dons didn’t seem too fazed.
Max Lowe celebrates his opening goal amongst his Dons teammates. (Photo by Scott Baxter/Getty Images)
You could argue the second was perhaps a bit lucky. Greg Stewart’s shot deflected before Niall McGinn pounced and tucked home. McGinn still had to score what may have seemed a routine finish but he did so emphatically.
McGinn proving a menace
But there was no luck about the Northern Irishman’s second. A superb curling effort beyond Rohan Ferguson gave the Dons a valuable three points as they moved to join Kilmarnock on 55 points. It’s the fifth goal the winger has scored in his last six for Aberdeen and Northern Ireland.
Niall McGinn was a real nuisance for Stephen Robinson’s Steelmen. (Photo by Scott Baxter/Getty Images)
It seems like the 31-year-old is back to his best and that can only be a good thing. With Dundee away to come at the weekend and their Scottish Cup semi-final with Celtic, it’s a big few weeks for McInnes’ men.
Consistency has been their biggest hindrance throughout the season. The Motherwell result could possibly be the springboard in order for them to push on and claim third place and possibly sneak into a cup final.