Stuart Kettlewell fired up by Motherwell promise as youth side easily win cup

Stuart Kettlewell was delighted to see his young Motherwell side avoid becoming one of the shock victims in the first round of Viaplay Cup group stage matches.

A Well side which started with three teenagers won 2-0 away to League Two side Elgin on a day when their Premiership rivals St Johnstone and St Mirren, as well as recently relegated Dundee United, were suffered humiliating defeats at the hands of lower league opponents.

Lennon Miller, 16, and Jon Obika scored the goals for the Steelmen.

"We had a lot of control in the first half and they changed shape a bit in the second half and gave us a problem or two," Kettlewell told Well TV. "Overall I'm relatively satisfied, but we know it wasn't perfect.

"We have so much more to give, but that's the most exciting part. Pre-season gives you the opportunity to try and get the best out of individuals, but now we're in the competition and you can see other results that it is difficult, it is not an easy competition.

"Some of the top clubs lost their opening game and we managed to go a long way and get three points in the group."

Kettlewell started 16-year-old Miller and Luca Ross, as well as 18-year-old Ewan Wilson, while 17-year-old Mark Ferrie made his debut as a late substitute.

"I listen to the Motherwell supporters and I think a big part of the identity of Motherwell Football Club is young emerging talent and giving them the opportunity to play," Kettlewell said.

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"I've always played against young players if I think they're good enough. I'm not afraid to do that.

"The four guys - two 16 year olds, one 17 year old and one 18 year old - all did well in pre-season and deserved this opportunity and we think they can get much better."

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