Barely a week into the new season it was perhaps more than a little premature to bill this as a relegation battle but both sides certainly fought as though their lives depended on it particularly in a breathless final ten minutes which produced both goals.
Ex-Motherwell striker Alex Burns gave the visitors the lead with a beautifully judged header after a cross from James McKinstry had been flicked on by Martin Hardie.
But just two minutes later Stephen Pearson proved that anything Burns could do he could do even better when he equalised with a spectacular leaping header from what seemed to be an impossible angle.
Thistle, who were unrecognisable in their all-white away strip, had dominated the early stages without ever managing to threaten the home goal.
Scott Paterson's forays from defence were a constant delight, however, and from one of these striker Scott McLean shot over in the 23rd minute.
Motherwell eventually began to settle with Pearson quite outstanding on the left wing and after 36 minutes defender Doug Ramsay tried his luck without success from long range.
Burns finally produced the first shot on target shortly before half time and also attempted an ambitious half volley from over 30 yards.
There was still time before the interval for Jamie McFadden to thrill the home crowd with a swerving free-kick which was pushed round the post for a corner.
The improved standard of play continued at the start of the second period with Partick full-back Alan Archibald firing a sizzling left foot drive inches over the bar.
Thistle then survived two massive scares as Paterson tackled McFadden before he could shoot and goalkeeper Kevin Budinauckas was forced to make a magnificent reflex save to prevent a headed own goal by summer signing Derek Whyte