Motherwell manager Jim Gannon hopes his side's second Clydesdale Bank Premier League point against the Old Firm can again give them a lift when they face St Mirren on Saturday.

Gannon is well aware that Motherwell, who secured a goalless draw at Celtic Park last weekend, followed up their point against Rangers last month with an impressive victory at Dundee United.

"We got a creditable draw against Rangers and went on to get a fantastic win in Dundee," Gannon said. "So I know on the back of getting a draw against the Old Firm we can build on that, and St Mirren will be as tough a game as Dundee United away."

He added: "It will be nice if the lads can build on this because I think the next two games are critical for us in enjoying the remainder of this year."

Victory at Tannadice aside, the two draws against the Old Firm are the clearest evidence of how well Gannon has organised his young players since taking over this summer.

"It shows we're respectable and competitive, shows we have a good work ethic and good shape, which makes us difficult to break down," Gannon said.

"The way we have played in both games we have shown we are able to keep the ball and give ourselves an opportunity to win games.

"We have been rock solid both games and it's nice for the players because it's a real confidence boost to get such respectable results."