Motherwell boss Jens Berthel Askou believes his team’s “defensive discipline” was crucial in their dominant victory over Dundee United, as the Steelmen move to within touching distance of Rangers and Celtic.

The 2-0 triumph improves their terrific run of form to just 1 defeat in 20 matches, 14 of which have included a clean sheet. Speaking at full-time, Askou was delighted with his side’s latest win.

“A very hectic and lively game. It was difficult to play around them because of their man-marking.

“It was a lot about changing positions and counter-movements to open up space. When we got the ball down we played some really good football. In terms of work rate and willingness to run for each other I think it was outstanding.

“The defensive discipline gave us full control of the game that was, at times, quite lively. Big credit to the boys for going out and being extremely disciplined for one another.

“I think it was a good example of us playing against a team that created a lively game and still being able to control it.

“Today we really deserved that clean sheet because we gave absolutely nothing away. We were on top of them, controlling the space in behind. It’s great to see the players are just as hungry to keep a clean sheet and defend as they are going forward.

“We know that Tawanda Maswanhise is very, very hard to stop in open play. Eventually he’ll break through and find a chance. He might have been a little bit lucky with that one today but he had other opportunities. A top player and a fantastic young man who works very hard. We’re enjoying having him here and happy the transfer window doesn’t open tomorrow.

“What we are in the mix for is for you to discuss. We had a game today, we had to attack, we did that well and got a clean sheet and three points. It was a good game for us in terms of playing against man-for-man pressure and it didn’t stop us today.”

With a trip to Dens Park up next, the Fir Park side have a chance to cut the gap on league leaders Hearts to just seven points. While Askou’s team are often praised for their expansive, entertaining style of play, they deserve to be viewed as genuine title contenders.

They have suffered only one home defeat all season, and with the league’s top scorer, Tawanda Maswanhise, leading the line, it’s time to stop patronising their title credentials. This is a team with the quality and resilience to remain a persistent threat to Hearts, Celtic, and Rangers throughout the campaign.