Partick Thistle vs Morton – Match Preview

by Russell Gordon.

As we leave 2021 and enter 2022, Dougie Imrie will look to build upon his solid start as Morton boss as they first foot Partick Thistle at Firhill. Imrie may well find that any hopes of that are scuppered by the weather however, with the Maryhill club already having announced a 10am pitch inspection ahead of Sunday's clash. With the weather forecast not looking terribly promising, and the Jags' previous home fixture against Ayr United in midweek already having conveniently fallen foul of the weather at a time when crowds, and income are restricted for Scottish football clubs. Only a supreme optimist would expect to be seeing the 'Ton in action this weekend, but we'll crack on regardless...

Match streams can be purchased here. It is worth noting, however, that there is a 10am pitch inspection tomorrow morning. Given that away fans may be able to attend the rearranged fixture, it's worth waiting until later in the day before purchasing the stream.

Photo - GBR Photographs.

Squad News

With Brian McLean returning to the side in midweek, in a straight swap for the injured Oisin McEntee, who Imrie confirmed broke his wrist at Gayfield a fortnight ago, the new boss will likely continue with his central defensive trio, although it'll be interesting to see what he does with Mark Russell and Lewis Strapp in the left wing-back position. It's unclear as to whether Russell collected an injury on Wednesday, but if not, his first half substitution, after he would probably admit himself to having a howler, was a marked change in managerial policy from anything the Morton support have seen in many a long year. Strapp will quite justifiably feel that his performance in the second half, particularly in an attacking sense, merits a starting berth. Likewise, Robbie Muirhead and Cammy Blues, whose second half introductions were pivotal in changing the game on Wednesday will feel they have a shout.

Current Connections

Only Robbie Muirhead of the current Morton squad has represented Partick, whilst on loan from Hearts in 2015, scoring twice in 8 appearances. There are more ex-Morton players in the home side's ranks though, with Scott Tiffoney and Brian Graham starting their careers at Cappielow before moving on and finding themselves back in the lower leagues with Partick. Former Motherwell loanee Ross McIver spent the latter part of last season on loan at Firhill after returning to Motherwell from Morton in the January window, and went onto make his move permanent in the summer following his release from the Steelmen. Midfielder Kyle Turner is the son of ex-Morton and Partick midfielder Tommy.

Photo - GBR Photographs.

Tale of the Tape

It's a long time since Morton beat Partick Thistle. The last time being the fantastic 3-2 win in August 2019 at Cappielow when Morton were outplayed for long spells before awaking from their slumber in the last 15 minutes to grab victory from the jaws of defeat. The blow of two defeats after that were softened by Partick's abysmal run of form, resulting in their relegation as the season was curtailed due to the outbreak of the COVID pandemic. However, on their return to the division this year, they dished out a 3-0 early season hammering which we're best glossing over. A 0-0 midweek draw at Cappielow wasn't a terrible result, nor was it a bad performance, but during a run in which wins, rather than draws are required, it may well be Morton, rather than Partick who look back on the game as two points dropped come the season's end.

Opposition Analysis

With Morton propping up the table and looking to drag themselves out of trouble, Partick have other ambitions. Whilst sitting in 5th place, just outside the play-off places at the top end of the table, the 6 point gap on top of the league Arbroath is hardly insurmountable, given their game in hand. Their defensive record this season has been excellent, with the recent 0-2 home defeat by Arbroath bringing to an end a run of 656 minutes in the league without conceding a goal. Amidst rumours that St. Johnstone are sniffing about striker Zak Rudden, Ian McCall will be keen to bat away any advances from the Perth club.

Photo - GBR Photographs.

Betting Guide

All odds are supplied by McBookie. All odds correct as of 10am on 17th January 2022 and are subject to change. Please only bet within your means and visit BeGambleAware if you are struggling.

As has been the case more often than not this season, our hosts are favourites ahead of the match at 4/7, with the draw priced at 13/5 and Morton priced at 9/2. Given Morton's improved defensive performance at Rugby Park, Partick to win with under 2.5 goals in the game at 12/5 or Morton to keep a clean sheet at 15/4 may be worth looking at.

Match Officials

Referee- Euan Anderson

AR 1- Graham Chambers

AR 2- John Stewart