Motherwell 1 Everton 1

[ian1964 10,720]

STUART McCALL is backing Simon Ramsden to solve his Champions League defensive crisis — and give him three signings for the price of one.

 

The former Bradford defender has been training with the Steelmen during their pre-season campaign.

 

But they can’t offer him a deal yet due to fears over TV deals.

 

And with Shaun Hutchinson, Steven Saunders and Jonathan Page all crocked, the Fir Park side are struggling.

 

McCall had trialist Ramsden and kid Adam Cummins in the centre of defence for Stevie Hammell’s testimonial.

 

And the gaffer admitted they might be all he has when Panathinaikos arrive for the third qualifying round first leg on July 31.

 

He said: “We could do with some more bodies in.

 

“Jonathan will be a couple of weeks, Saunders is a couple of weeks away although we are hoping Hutchy is back running after his groin injury.

 

“We probably need three or four players but we are not going to be allowed to do that.

 

“If we can bring in one to fill in three positions then Ramsden is the one who fits the bill.

 

“Simon and Adam could be our defensive partnership but I would be hopeful big Hutchy could be available. I’m aware of the financial climate but we need to bring in A player.”

 

A stunning Nicky Law strike in the 54th minute cancelled out Shane Duffy’s 34th-minute header in front of 4,512.

 

McCall admitted: “I’m really pleased with the goal — as we certainly deserved one.

 

“For the first ten minutes, Everton were keeping the ball and I thought it was going to be a long day but we then settled.”

 

Man of the moment Hammell was happy with how it went.

 

He said: “It was good to see everyone and I enjoyed the day.

 

“Even though it was my own testimonial, we wanted to treat it like a proper game. It was important we get up to speed.”

 

The likes of Tim Cahill and Merouane Fellaini showed class early on. Leon Osman bulleted a header over but then Well got stuck in and created chances.

 

The Everton defence looked ropey with Michael Higdon scooping a shot over and then Henrik Ojamaa stinging the palms of keeper Tim Howard.

 

Jamie Murphy burst into life in the 20th minute when he struck the post from the left.

 

Davie Moyes’ men took the lead when stopper Duffy looped in a header in off the back post.

 

The home side levelled with Law bringing the house down with a half-volley from the edge of the box into the top corner.

 

McCall’s men turned the screw with Higdon clippingthe post.

 

And Cummins showed great awareness to expertly clear Jack Rodwell’s shot off the line.

 

James McFadden then made his long-awaited return to Fir Park when he came on in the 63rd minute.

Nikica Jelavic had been booed coming on at half-time and then Stevie Naismith got the same treatment when he appeared on 69 minutes.

 

Midfield dynamo Law had a great chance to win it but dragged a shot wide.

 

Moyes said: “Motherwell did well although we are a bit behind and it showed at times.

 

“It was good to see Stevie Naismith get a runout and we must make sure his knee is right.

 

“I was impressed with Dundee United as well and you can see why they and Motherwell did well last season.

 

“It will be a tough ask to get past Panathinaikos but if the supporters come out for the first game then it will give them a pretty decent opportunity.”

 

Read more: http://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/scotsol/homepage/sport/spl/4443125/Motherwell-1-Everton-1.html#ixzz21LV6BejQ

Edited July 22, 2012 by ian1964

[Gribz 837]

Shame for Stuart McCall, one of footballs good guys yet I think he will get pumped from Panathinikos.

 

Really cant see Naismith making a big impact at Everton. Out of his depth there.

[Guest Dutchy]

I do feel sorry for McCall, does he get booed at Fir Park as he was with Rangers when all the EBT's where going on, no?