Match report: Kilmarnock 0-0 Motherwell

Kilmarnock failed to break down Motherwell as it ended goalless at BBSP Rugby Park.

Derek McInnes made five changes from the defeat against Ross County; Danny Armstrong, David Watson, Liam Donnelly, Bruce Anderson and Innes Cameron all made way for Robbie Deas, Liam Polworth, Bobby Wales, Marley Watkins and Kyle Magennis who made his first start in 466 days.

It was great work from Fraser Murray down the right wing after 3 minutes who found Marley Watkins, but the striker couldn’t connect well enough to fire a shot on target.

Joe Wright had a good chance in the 9^th minute as he smashed a volley on target, but Motherwell’s Aston Oxborough pulled off a top save.

Brad Lyons had the ball in the net with a lovely finish, but it’s ruled out for offside following a VAR check in the 27^th minute.

Killie had an appeal for a penalty minutes later as Bobby Wales’ cross appeared to strike a Motherwell hand, but Don Robertson quickly waved away said appeals and VAR Andrew Dallas agreed with the on-field decision.

Killie had the ideal opportunity to go in front on the stroke of half-time, Lyons powered a header from a Fraser Murray corner, but to the captain’s dismay it thundered off the crossbar.

Clear-cut chances were at a premium as the second half progressed.

Watkins had another great chance as he spun to get a shot away inside the box – but his effort was well saved again, although he knows he should have done better.

Bruce Anderson had a decent chance after a teasing Danny Armstrong cross in the 86^th minute, his effort was fired wide though.

Stephen O’Donnell almost came back to haunt his former club as he was slipped through on goal with the chance to fire Motherwell ahead, thankfully Robby McCrorie watched it fly past the post.

Score: Kilmarnock 0-0 Motherwell

Team: McCrorie, Mayo, Wright, Deas, Ndaba (Anderson 78’), Lyons, Polworth, Magennis (Burroughs 65’), Murray (Armstrong 78’), Watkins, Wales