Motherwell eyes Conference League advancement against HJK

Motherwell defender Jake Girdwood-Reich has urged his team to "finish off" their Conference League tie against HJK Helsinki to reward their passionate fans.

The 22-year-old, who started in Thursday’s 1-1 draw in Finland, was struck by the vocal support from the travelling Motherwell supporters. Girdwood-Reich, who joined the club shortly after Alfred Johansson’s appointment as manager, said the players are determined to deliver a strong performance in the return leg to progress in the competition.

Motherwell’s away goal gives them a slight edge ahead of next week’s second leg at Fir Park, but Girdwood-Reich knows the Finnish champions will pose a serious threat. The defender, who has quickly settled into Johansson’s system, emphasised the importance of home advantage and the role the fans will play in pushing the team over the line.

A win or a scoring draw would see Motherwell advance, but failure to capitalise could end their European campaign early. For Girdwood-Reich and his teammates, the motivation is clear: secure the result for the fans who made the long trip to Helsinki and those who will pack Fir Park for the decider.