Hearts vs Motherwell
Scottish Premiership
Saturday
17th February 2024
Tynecastle
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the Scottish Premiership fixture between Hearts and Motherwell.
Hearts vs Motherwell: Preview
Hearts form analysis
The Jam Tarts’ recent results highlight a resilient team capable of grinding out wins even when not at their best. After fighting back to beat Livingston 2-1 away, Hearts showed determination again to overturn a two goal deficit and beat Dundee 3-2 at home. Their coarseness and quality was on show again as they ground out a 2-0 home win over Aberdeen, with striker Shankland netting the second. However, Hearts needed another Shankland double, including a late penalty, to come from behind and win 3-2 away at Dundee.
Most recently, Hearts displayed steel again as Shankland’s goal secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory away at St Johnstone. Overall, while not always fluent in attack, Hearts have shown tenacity and resilience to win games even when below par. Manager Steven Naismith will be encouraged by his team’s ability to dig in and find crucial goals when needed. If Hearts can add greater attacking fluency to match their grit, they have potential to consolidate third spot and build momentum in the coming weeks.
Motherwell form analysis
Motherwell’s recent results highlight a free-scoring team capable of big wins but vulnerable defensively. After twice coming from behind to draw 2-2 away at Hibernian, Motherwell were held 1-1 at home by St Johnstone, conceding an early goal before Bair equalised. Bair was on target again as Motherwell fought back to draw 1-1 away at Kilmarnock. Their attacking potential was on full show as they thrashed Ross County 5-0 in their next game, with Bair, Spittal and Vale all impressing.
However, defensive issues persisted as Motherwell then surrendered a three goal lead to draw 3-3 away at Aberdeen, exposing frailties at the back. Overall, manager Steven Hammell will be encouraged by his side’s attacking threat, with Bair’s goals particularly crucial. But their tendency to concede cheap goals and let leads slip will be a concern. Tightening up defensively will be key if Motherwell are to build on their attacking promise and push higher up the Premiership table in the coming weeks.
