Motherwell points total thrills manager Stuart McCall
- Published
Manager Stuart McCall was delighted to see Motherwell surpass last season's points tally with one match to spare.
First-half goals from James McFadden and Chris Humphrey were enough to sink Ross County at Fir Park.
"It's nice to finish with a home win," said McCall. "Although that's probably the least impressive we've been at home since Christmas.
"We've broken the points record from last year and the players deserve it for the whole season."
Motherwell, who had wrapped up second place in the Scottish Premier League prior to kick off, are on 63 points from their 37 games.
County, who have had their hopes of finishing third dashed by the defeat, did most of the pressing but could not find a way through the home defence.
And the speed of Humphrey proved the undoing of the Staggies as he raced clear to set up McFadden's goal before adding a wonderful solo effort.
McCall was pleased with the winger's display, which he joked made up for a lack of mobility from his front two.
He said: "We've got pace on the break, although we missed Henrik [Ojamaa] a little bit - the front two - Faddy and Higgy [Michael Higdon] - I could probably give them both a race!
"As with all wingers, Chris can be a bit hit and miss at times but he was the difference between the teams today."
Darren Randolph was given the captaincy for the day and the departing goalkeeper was taken off during injury time, so he could wave goodbye to the crowd.
"I've loved it from the first day," said the Irishman who moved to Fir Park in 2010.
"I've had cup finals, semi finals and European nights.
"A bit of silverware would have been nice but you can't be too greedy.
"I've been involved with a great team and it's been brilliant while it's lasted."
McFadden's ninth-minute strike was his fifth goal in 10 consecutive outings for Motherwell since he returned to the club on a short-term deal.
"I don't know," he told BBC Radio Scotland when asked if he was also saying farewell to the Fir Park supporters.
"It's just a thank you. The fans have been great since I came back and we've got second place and it's a good feeling.
"A lot of people had written me off and said I was finished or past it.
"I just came back to fall in love with the game again - at certain times I wavered and thought 'can I do it?' And I'm glad I did it.
"I've not had any offers. I'm just getting on with it and enjoying playing football again."
- Published12 May 2013