Well held to pre-season draw by Championship visitors Wolves

Jul 31 2008

Motherwell 1 Wolves 1

IN THE first of three home friendlies against English opposition, Motherwell were held to a draw by Championship side Wolves on Wednesday.

Motherwell got off to a good start, taking the lead in three minutes when a Stevie Hammell crossfield ball was touched on by David Clarkson into the path of Steven McGarry, who kept his cool before slamming the ball past keeper Wayne Hennessey.

Rather than build on this early lead, the hosts spent much of the first half on the back foot, with Graeme Smith having to save from Sylvan Ebanks-Blake, before the striker smashed a shot over minutes later.

Despite their lack of possession, Motherwell could have doubled their lead when George Elokobi was short with a passback, letting Porter through, but Hennessey saved with his feet.

Wolves equalised moments later when a Michael Kightly cross found Ebanks-Blake unmarked at the far post, and last season’s Championship top scorer made no mistake with a header from six yards.

Smith was called into action before the interval, saving a point-blank effort by Andy Keogh before turning a Kightly shot wide.

Substitutions peppered the second half, but Wolves looked the more lively side, with Sam Vokes and Neil Collins denied by fine saves from on-form Smith.

MOTHERWELL: G. Smith, Quinn (Connolly), Craigan, Reynolds, Hammell, O’Brien (D. Smith), Malcolm (Hughes), Fitzpatrick (Lasley), McGarry (Trialist), Porter (Murphy), Clarkson (Slane). Sub (not used): Imley.