'Well eighth after gutsy 3-0 Tannadice win

Scott McDonald, pictured during last Saturday's Killie defeat, scored twice in Motherwell's 3-0 win at Tannadice on Tuesday night (Pic by Alan Watson)

The result lifted ’Well out of the relegation play-off spot and up to eighth, just three points off the top six.

The victory vindicated manager Mark McGhee’s decision to make five changes from Saturday’s disastrous 2-0 home loss to Kilmarnock.

James McFadden, Louis Laing, Ben Hall, Keith Lasley and Louis Moult were all brought in for ’Well’s 3-5-2 formation.

Other than ’Well keeper Connor Ripley’s 22nd minute save from a Blair Spittal shot, the first half was uneventful until the Steelmen took the lead in fine fashion on the stroke of half-time.

Centre back Stephen McManus – the only defender not dropped from Saturday – netted a flick header from McFadden’s free-kick.

’Well survived a major scare on 65 minutes when Ripley fumbled a John Rankin free-kick, before the ensuing scramble resulted in Spittal heading against the bar.

Two goals from Scott McDonald – a half volley from a Josh Law corner and a stunning shot from outside the box – sealed a crucial win for ’Well full of character and clinical finishing.