Motherwell midfielder Stephen Pearson is determined to make the most of a pressure-free run-in by finishing the season on a high.

This time last year Motherwell were embroiled in an ultimately unsuccessful battle to avoid a relegation play-off, before thrashing Rangers 6-1 over two legs.

Pearson admits he did not enjoy the stressful period but this season Motherwell's only concern is holding on to fourth spot in the Ladbrokes Premiership.

Motherwell looked hungry when they beat Hearts 1-0 last weekend and Pearson has even more reason to relish their trip to Aberdeen on Saturday after missing four games - and three wins - because of broken ribs and a punctured lung.

The 33-year-old said: "We don't want the season just to peter out, we want to finish as high up the table as we can, and that gives us some momentum going into next season.

"When you compare the situation to last season, it was a horrible situation to be in. Albeit we managed to stay up, I didn't enjoy that at all.

"The pressure was huge, for everybody. It wasn't just the players that were under pressure, it was everyone at the club. Livelihoods were at stake and you don't want to let anyone down, let alone the supporters and everyone connected with the club. Jobs were at stake and we really felt the pressure.

"Now we are in the top half, the freedom is there to go and express ourselves and I think you are seeing that. The players are playing with a lot of confidence and have high energy.

"Even though there are only four games to go we are still flying with energy. It's a confidence thing, we are on a good run and we will just see where that takes us."