Hibs Euro rival set clear objective as 'extremely cool' run-in will spark disappointment if key target hit
The former Hibs defender is aiming to see his side pull away from Hibs in the race for Europe.
Paul McGinn insists Motherwell not beating Hibs into a European spot would now enter the disappointment category - as the Steelmen aim to all but end the race this weekend.
It wouldn’t mathematically be finished but a win for Jens Berthel Askou’s fourth-placed side over Falkirk coupled with Hibs losing versus Celtic would put the Fir Park side nine clear with three games left. Celtic winning the Scottish Cup would unlock fifth as a continental spot but fourth where Motherwell reside is the last available place via the Premiership.
With a +11 goal difference on Hibs currently, it would take a miraculous swing for David Gray’s Hibees to get into fourth, were the above scenario to play out. Former Easter Road defender Paul McGinn has captained Motherwell this campaign and insists finishing without trips to the continent would leave a sour taste.
What are Motherwell’s objectives for the rest of the season?
McGinn said: "It's been pretty nice so far, but it's only nice if we finish the season strongly. If we don't secure fourth now it would be very disappointing, so we need to make sure we get that. People were tipping us to finish bottom after we huffed and puffed in the League Cup group stage.
“It was understandable as they were only seeing us on a Saturday. It's been a great achievement but if we don't finish fourth, we won't be happy. It would mean a lot to finish fourth, but it can't just be a one-off either. The club realises that and are doing things off the pitch to progress Motherwell.
"We just had that wee run where we were dropping points that we hadn't since right at the start of the season. We knew a blip would come, but those four or five games were just too much. There is frustration there, but at one point we looked to be going bottom of the table during a game at Livingston. We went on a good run after a late win there, so we can't get too far ahead of ourselves. When we were on that run with so many clean sheets and wins, we did look so strong. But that wee blip did cost us."
Jens Berthel Askou on Motherwell ambitions
Askou added: “Every team decides their own fate over the course of 38 games. That's how it is. We are extremely excited about being where we are in the top six, fighting for a European spot, and with qualities to be able to compete and win also.
“Not just being here and get better, but being here and actually being competitive and trying to win in these top six games. We felt that last week. Extremely intense, emotional atmospheres.
“That's only getting bigger and bigger as we go along. Especially because the top is so tight as it is right now. There are three teams fighting for the title. The games themselves are extremely cool to be part of. That's why we can't wait to get out there and play."