Motherwell’s Six‑Game Slide: What Went Wrong After a Promising Start

The Rise and Fall of Motherwell

Motherwell’s 2022‑23 campaign was a story of brilliance and heartbreak. Under Jens Berthel Askou the club finished fourth in the Scottish Premiership and stunned the league with a run of victories against Celtic, Rangers and St Mirren. The team’s high‑tempo, possession‑based style was praised by pundits and fans alike.

The Six‑Game Drought

The current season, however, has seen Motherwell lose six consecutive league matches – their worst run since Terry Butcher’s era 23 years ago. The loss of key players – Elijah Just, Stephen Welsh, Elliot Watt and Callum Slattery – in the summer, coupled with Askou’s move to Toulouse, left a huge void. New manager Alfred Johansson has struggled to replicate the previous season’s cohesion.

Statistical Reality Check

While the headlines focus on the loss streak, the numbers paint a more nuanced picture:

• Goals scored: 1.1 per game (down from 1.55 last season)
• Expected goals (xG): 1.6 (up from 1.48)
• Shots on target: 14.5 per game (up by one)
• Goals conceded: 1.8 per game (almost double 0.95)
• Expected goals against: 1.76 (up from 1.24)

These figures suggest that Motherwell’s attack remains potent, but defensive frailties and a lack of conversion efficiency are the main culprits.

The Human Factor

The departure of Paul McGinn as club captain and the transfer of goalkeeper Calum Ward to QPR have disrupted leadership on the pitch. Injuries to key squad members have further hampered consistency. Scott Allan, former Celtic and Hibs midfielder, notes that the team’s aggression and positional discipline have suffered.

Looking Ahead

Despite the slump, there are signs of resilience. The club’s recent Europa League performance against Freiburg and the statistical uptick in shots and xG indicate potential. A single well‑executed goal could shift momentum. The challenge for Johansson is to rebuild confidence, tighten defensive organization, and restore the attacking rhythm that defined the previous season.

How to Verify

• Follow official Motherwell communications for squad updates.
• Check match statistics on reputable sites such as Opta and the Scottish Premiership’s official portal.
• Watch match footage to assess tactical changes and player performance.

Takeaway

Motherwell’s six‑game losing streak is a symptom of deeper structural issues rather than a sudden collapse. With the right adjustments, the club can aim to return to its competitive edge.