Mark McGhee has targeted an extended run in the Homecoming Scottish Cup after suffering a string of disappointing results in cup competitions during his time at Fir Park.

The Steelmen suffered defeat to Rangers in the Co-operative Insurance Cup last year but, more disappointingly, crashed to local rivals Hamilton in the same competition this term.

Irn-Bru First Division outfit Dundee were their conquerors in the Scottish Cup last time and McGhee is determined to avoid a repeat when they face Inverurie Locos this week.

The fourth-round tie originally fell victim to the weather but, despite a gruelling midweek trip north, the Well boss wants to ensure it is his players who meet St Mirren in the next round.

"The cup performances have been disappointing," admitted McGhee.

"We lost to Rangers in the League Cup last year, which was kind of acceptable in a way. When you lose to the Old Firm, you shrug your shoulders and get on with it.

"We lost to Hamilton this year in a game we deserved to win.

"There was a sending-off for Chris Porter which we still believe was a ridiculous decision that cost us the game, I think. We had injuries of course that night as well.

"Last year we went out against Dundee and that was very disappointing.

"We would like to have a cup run and in particular I don't want to lose to a team from a lower division.

"So first and foremost we have to make sure we get through this round."

Confidence will be a sky-high ahead of the clash following a 4-0 victory over Dundee United in the Clydesdale Bank Premier League yesterday, providing Motherwell with hope of a belated challenge for a European berth this season.

"It's as good as many performances we have had," said McGhee.

"I don't think you always run out with four goals, even with a performance like that, and especially away from home at Dundee United.

"We have never done that well here in terms of results. It was certainly up there."

Such a heavy defeat was undoubtedly a blow for United, with the race for third place now blown wide open.

But boss Craig Levein is not concerned about the result affecting his players' confidence.

He said: "If we had been completely over-run and they had a dozen chances and scored four goals and completely battered us, then fair enough.

"You can talk about doings but, at half-time, they had three chances on goal and score three goals.

"If you give any team 3-0 of a start, that's what happens."