Aberdeen Archives - Page 3 of 4

Boyle on target as resurgent Hibs down Dons

Venue: Pittodrie Stadium Date: 21/12/24 Time: 15:00 Hibernian continued their impressive turnaround to pile further misery on Jimmy Thelin’s Aberdeen as they dropped to third behind Rangers, following a sixth game without a win. Topi Keskinen opened the scoring as the Dons dominated the opening stages of the game but an error from Rubezic allowed Martin Boyle to tee up Elie Youan to level the score just four minutes later. Keskinen was unlucky not to double his tally, first after a delicate Leighton Clarkson chip saw unable to untangle himself and finish and not long after when his curling shot from outside the box rattled the post. An unmarked Nicky Cadden lashed home a second for the visitors by the far post after a pinpoint cross from Boyle. Defensive mishaps were once again Aberdeen’s undoing in the second half, far too open in the midfield as Boyle, in yet another involvement, was on the end of a Nectarios Triantis pass into space for only his third goal of the season. The win sees David Gray’s side move of up to a season high eighth place. Attendance: 18,375 Line-ups: Aberdeen: R. Doohan, J. MacKenzie, G. Molloy, S. Rubezic, N. Devlin (S. Morris 77’), G. Shinnie (c) (A. Palaversa 77’), S. Heltne Nilsen (Duk 77’), T. Keskinen, L. Clarkson (D. Polvara 59’), J. McGrath, E. Sokler (P. Ambrose 59’) Substitutes: P. Ambrose, Duk, A. MacDonald, J. McGarry, S. Morris, K. Nisbet, A. Palaversa, D. Polvara, T. Ritchie Hibernian: J. Smith, J. Iredale, R. Bushiri, W. O’Hora (L. Miller 51’), N. Cadden, J. Newell (c) (Kwon Hyeok-Kyu 60’), N. Triantis, C. Cadden (J. Obita 88’), J. Campbell, E. Youan, M. Boyle Substitutes: L. Amos, J. Bursik, D. Gayle, J. Hoilett, Kwon Hyeok-Kyu, D. Levitt, L. Miller, N. Moriah-Welsh, J. Obita Referee: Steven McLean

December 22, 2024

St Johnstone draw extends Dons’ winless run to five

Aberdeen 1 – 1 St Johnstone Leighton Clarkson rescued a point as Aberdeen’s draw with St Johnstone saw them cede further ground to Celtic. St Johnstone raced to an early lead through Makenzie Kirk’s opener just five minutes in before Clarkson ensured the spoils were shared. The visitors impressed in difficult conditions, Adama Sidibeh denied a winner by an excellent Nicky Devlin block. Jimmy Thelin’s men have struggled in recent weeks and had few chances on the night. Substitute Duk providing the assist but unable to drive his side to the three points. Aberdeen are now winless in their past five games and with two games in hand, Rangers could narrow the five point gap between the sides. Attendance: 15,880 Line-ups: Aberdeen: R. Doohan, J. McGarry (N.Devlin 46′), G. Molloy, S. Rubezic, J. Milne (T. Keskinen 71′), S. Heltne Nilsen (A. Palaversa 46′), J. McGrath, L. Clarkson, S. Morris (Duk 46′), K. Nisbet (V. Besuijen 77′) Substitutes: P. Ambrose, V. Besuijen, N. Devlin, Duk, T. Keskinen, A. MacDonald, A. Palaversa, T. Ritchie, E. Sokler St Johnstone: J. Rae, D. Wright, K. Cameron, J. Sanders, L. Neilson, J. Holt, S. Sprangle, M. Smith (A. Sidibeh 63′), B. Kimpioka, N. Clark, M. Kirk (G. Carey 88′) Substitute: G. Carey, A. Essel, F. Franczak, D. Keltjens, M. Kucheriavyi, J. McPake, A. Sidibeh, R. Sinclair

December 7, 2024

Celtic edge past Aberdeen in top of the table clash

Celtic lived up to their Champions-elect status with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Aberdeen at a wet and windy Pittodrie on Wednesday night. The match began in dramatic fashion as the players emerged through a cloud of red and white smoke, with fireworks and pyrotechnics lighting up the night sky. Aberdeen started brightly and had the first clear-cut chance. A superb cross-field ball from Nilsen bypassed Valle, setting up Duk for a strike from the edge of the box. His effort was smartly saved by Schmeichel with his feet, and Nisbet’s follow-up whistled narrowly past the post. Midway through the first half, Callum McGregor had Celtic’s first real opportunity. Known for his long-range goals this season, he found himself with plenty of space, but his tame shot rolled harmlessly past Ross Doohan’s goal, leaving the stand-in keeper untroubled. As the first half progressed, Celtic began to increase the tempo. Aberdeen’s midfield duo of Shinnie and Nilsen had been shielding their defence effectively, congesting the central areas, but Celtic started to exploit space on the flanks. Despite clever runs by Kuhn and Maeda, the Dons’ defence held firm, although they were beginning to retreat deeper. Just before the break, Celtic thought they had taken the lead when Bernardo’s corner went directly into the net. However, Maeda was penalised for a foul on Doohan, sparing the keeper’s blushes. A brief VAR review gave Celtic fans hope, but the decision stood, much to the delight of the home supporters. Halftime: Aberdeen 0 – 0 Celtic The second half began with both sides trading chances. Celtic’s Kuhn came closest with a strike that sailed just over the bar, looking destined for the top corner. At the other end, Duk surged into the Celtic box but went down under pressure from Greg Taylor, with appeals for a penalty waved away. Just after the hour mark, Aberdeen produced some heroic defending to keep the scoreline level. Alistair Johnston saw two efforts blocked in quick succession, and when the ball fell to Hatate, Doohan made an excellent save to push the ball wide. Moments later, Doohan was called into action again, pulling off a stunning one-handed save to deny Adam Idah. Rising highest to meet a cross, Idah’s header seemed certain to find the net, but Doohan’s outstretched arm kept the game goalless. Aberdeen then squandered a golden chance to take the lead. Morris slid a clever pass to Besuijen, who drove into the box and cut it back to Clarkson. With time and space on the edge of the area, Clarkson dragged his shot well wide, a miss that would prove costly. Minutes later, Celtic made Aberdeen pay. Greg Taylor delivered a delicate, lofted pass to Hatate, who had cleverly drifted in behind McGarry, with Devlin playing him onside. The Japanese midfielder controlled the ball on his chest and calmly slotted it into the bottom corner, silencing Pittodrie. Aberdeen’s best chance to equalise fell to Ester Sokler. Polvara burst past Johnston and whipped in a dangerous cross. Trusty’s misjudged clearance presented the ball to Sokler in front of goal, but the striker’s effort was somehow deflected over the bar when it seemed easier to score. Despite Aberdeen’s late pressure, Celtic stood firm. As the clock ticked down, the home crowd began to thin, and the visitors held on to secure a vital three points. The victory extends Celtic’s lead at the top of the table to seven points. For Aberdeen, the defeat leaves them looking over their shoulders, with Rangers now just four points behind and holding a game in hand. Full time: Aberdeen 0 – 1 Celtic Lineups: Aberdeen: Doohan (GK); Devlin, Rubezic, Molloy, McGarry (Polvara 82’), Shinnie, Nilsen, McGrath (Clarkson 70’), Nisbet (Sokler 59’), Duk (Morris 59’), Keskinen (Besuijen 70) Celtic: Schmeichel (GK); Johnston, Trusty, Carter-Vickers, Valle (Taylor 46’), Bernardo (McCowan 65’), Hatate (Engels 87’), McGregor, Maeda (Forrest 75’), Kyogo (Idah 65’), Kuhn Bookings: Aberdeen – Nisbet, Shinnie, Nilsen Celtic – Valle Referee: Don Robertson VAR: Andrew Dallas

December 4, 2024

Scottish Premiership Showdown: Aberdeen v Celtic

Venue: Pittodrie Stadium, Aberdeen Date: Wednesday, 4 October Time: 20:00 GMT The stakes couldn’t be higher as Aberdeen host reigning champions Celtic at Pittodrie in a match that could define the trajectory of this Scottish Premiership season. With both sides battling for supremacy earlier in the campaign, the gap between them has widened, adding even more intrigue to this midweek clash. Celtic enter the fixture on a commanding run of six straight league wins, having shaken off early-season jitters that saw them draw 2-2 with Aberdeen at Celtic Park. Meanwhile, Jimmy Thelin’s Aberdeen have faltered, enduring a defeat and two draws in their last three league matches, compounded by a bruising 6-0 loss to Celtic in the League Cup semi-final. A victory for Brendan Rodgers’ Celtic would not only widen the gap at the top but also cast significant doubt over Aberdeen’s title aspirations, with Rangers already trailing further behind. Aberdeen’s Challenge: Aiming for Resilience For Aberdeen, the return to Pittodrie offers a welcome opportunity to regroup after a tough spell on the road. Manager Jimmy Thelin is focused on steady progress rather than dwelling on past defeats. “Playing at home brings its own energy and belief,” said Thelin, whose team endured gruelling away matches against St Mirren, Hibernian, and Hearts in just over a week. “It’s all about improvement and developing our identity. We know there are areas to strengthen, and that’s been our focus from day one.” Despite their semi-final collapse, Thelin emphasised the importance of a fresh approach: “We can’t live in the past. This is a different game, and we’re determined to take a big step forward.” Rodgers’ Praise and Tactical Adjustments Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers remains complimentary of Thelin’s work at Aberdeen, describing the Swede’s efforts as a “fantastic job” despite recent struggles. “Pittodrie is always a tough venue,” Rodgers noted. “Aberdeen are well-structured and clear in their approach, so we’re preparing for a real challenge.” Celtic’s depth allows Rodgers the luxury of rotation, and his recent changes paid dividends in their 5-0 win over Ross County. “The players’ energy, pressing, and attacking intent were outstanding,” he said. While Rodgers hinted he might rotate again, he was quick to praise his squad’s consistency and adaptability. Lessons from Liverpool Former Aberdeen manager Barry Robson drew parallels between this match and Liverpool’s tactical blueprint against Manchester City, urging the Dons to blend aggression with discipline. “You can’t just go all-out against Celtic because of their quality,” Robson said. “It’s about finding the right balance—when to press, when to sit back, and when to play.” The tight confines of Pittodrie, coupled with a passionate home crowd, could be a factor in unsettling Celtic’s rhythm. According to Robson, the key to success lies in stifling Celtic’s influential midfield duo, Callum McGregor and Reo Hatate. “Flood the middle of the pitch,” he advised. “Don’t let McGregor and Hatate control the game. React quickly, win the ball back, and transition forward with purpose. It’s all about bravery and belief.” What’s at Stake For Celtic, this match represents a chance to tighten their grip on the title race and edge closer to a fourth consecutive league triumph. For Aberdeen, it’s an opportunity to reignite their campaign and prove they can compete with the league’s dominant force. As the Scottish Premiership’s top two prepare to lock horns, all eyes will be on Pittodrie to see whether Celtic can extend their dominance or if Aberdeen can rise to the challenge and keep the title race alive.

December 4, 2024

Hearts Hold Aberdeen in Dramatic Tynecastle Clash

A resilient Hearts side fought their way to a 1-1 draw against Aberdeen, extending the Dons’ winless streak at Tynecastle to seven years. Despite contrasting domestic campaigns, some Aberdeen fans travelled to Edinburgh without high hopes – a sentiment that proved justified as their Tynecastle hoodoo continued. Early Drama and Dons Breakthrough Hearts began the match with purpose, dominating early exchanges and energising the home crowd. However, the atmosphere quickly soured as injuries to Stephen Kingsley and Frankie Kent disrupted the defensive line. With the makeshift back four unsettled, Aberdeen struck. Leighton Clarkson latched onto Shayden Morris’ cross, volleying it past Craig Gordon to give the visitors the lead, much to the delight of the away fans. Hearts Fight Back Facing increased pressure after Hibernian’s emphatic win over Motherwell the day before, Hearts showed determination. Musa Drammeh, making his first start for the club, made a pivotal impact. Blair Spittal’s cross found Drammeh, whose header deflected off Nicky Devlin and into the net. The goal lifted the Tynecastle faithful and set up a tense finale. A Tale of Missed Opportunities Aberdeen had chances to reclaim the lead, with Clarkson nearly doubling his tally before half-time, only to be denied by a superb save from Gordon. The second half saw Hearts’ Jorge Grant twice come close to sealing victory. First, his goal-bound effort was heroically blocked by Devlin, and later, his volley was spectacularly saved by substitute keeper Ross Doohan. Controversy and Defensive Struggles VAR took centre stage when Jack Milne’s reckless challenge on Beni Baningime escaped punishment, leaving Hearts fans furious. Aberdeen, fielding a backline that had never played together, showed signs of vulnerability but managed to hold firm. Jimmy Thelin’s decision to rotate heavily during this congested period brought mixed results, with the Dons lacking their usual cohesion. Manager Reactions Hearts boss Neil Critchley praised his side’s spirit despite the setbacks: “We started well, but the injuries disrupted us. To respond with hunger, passion, and desire after going behind shows the character of this team. A point was the least we deserved.” Aberdeen manager Jimmy Thelin focused on the positives: “The fight was there, and the players worked for each other. We need to find our rhythm again, but I’m confident in this group’s quality.” What’s Next? The result leaves Aberdeen four points behind league leaders Celtic, with questions lingering over their ability to sustain a title challenge. Hearts, meanwhile, remain at the foot of the table, two points adrift of Hibernian. With fixtures piling up and defensive injuries mounting, Neil Critchley faces a daunting task in steering his side to safety. For all the endeavour and drama, both teams will likely feel this was a missed opportunity. Tynecastle, however, remains a fortress that Aberdeen just can’t seem to conquer. Attendance: 18, 810 Line-ups: Hearts: C. Gordon, S. Kingsley (C.Halkett 30′), K. Rowles, F. Kent (A. Forrester 35′), D. Oyegoke, B. Banigime, C. Devlin, A. Forrest (J. Grant 80′), B. Spittal, M. Drammeh (K. Vargas 80′), L. Shankland Subsitutes: M. Boateng, L. Boyce, Z. Clark, Y. Dhanda, A. Forrester, J. Grant, C. Halkett, K. Vargas, J. Wilson Aberdeen: D. Mitov (R. Doohan 46′), J. McGarry (J. Milne 59′), G. Molloy, A. MacDonald, N. Devlin, S. Heltne Nilsen, A. Palaversa (G. Shinnie 59′), J. McGrath, L. Clarkson, S. Morris (T. Keskinen 80′), E. Sokler (Duk 75′) Substitutes: V. Besuijen, R. Doohan, Duk, T. Keskinen, J. Milne, K. Nisbet, D. Polvara, S. Rubezic, G. Shinnie Referee: Kevin Clancy

December 2, 2024

Hibs and Dons share spoils in six goal thriller

Hibernian 3 – Aberdeen 3 Three goals in added time saw Hibs snatch a draw with Aberdeen in their thrilling Easter Road encounter, easing some of the pressure on David Gray. The Edinburgh side looked to have put this season’s woes behind when captain Joe Newell snuck his side ahead before half-time. But as the second half wore on, Gray would surely not have batted an eyelid if it had been revealed that he was in fact stuck in Groundhog Day as he watched his players let a lead slip yet again. Substitute Shayden Morris’ repeated darts to the byline finally saw his poorly cleared cross finished by Jack McGrath. As the home side began to crack under the weight of expectation and fear of history repeating itself Nicky Devlin’s attacking forays were rewarded, pouncing on Jordan Smith’s howler after the keeper’s mis-hit punch allowed the ball to land fortuitously at his feet. As time ticked by, the home side looked short of any ideas whilst Aberdeen looked set to bounce back in perfect fashion following their first defeat of the season against St. Mirren. That was until Nick Cadden’s thunderous free-kick in added time proved impossible for Dimitar Mitov to reach, levelling the scores with only four minutes to go. Morris was on hand to leave Hibs fans with their heads in their hands, as he once again beat his man to lob the ball into the box before Ester Sokler’s stunning overhead kick seemed to have sealed matters in the 95th minute. The footballing Gods must surely have taken pity on Hibs for the first time this season, granting centre-back Rocky Bushiri the energy to charge up the park mere moments later and initiate a counter-attack that he subsequently finish for the sixth goal of the evening. Despite the leveller, Hibernian remain at the bottom of the table, winless since September. Thelin’s strength in depth Jimmy Thelin has gone two consecutive games without a win for the first time this season. It is almost worth bringing out the world’s smallest violin for a side that looks almost unrecognisable from last season’s basket case. Part of what has made the Dons such an impressive outfit though, is the way the manager has been able to get the best out of his fringe players. Nisbet, Morris and Sokler are just some of the squad who have had to content themselves with appearing on a rotational basis or, in Morris’ case, are trusted to make an immediate impact from the bench. Yet this evening, they played with the verve and commitment of a trio who have fully bought into Thelin’s plans. With six games scheduled in December alone, there will no period more crucial than the upcoming winter for those who are not regular starters to come to step into the spotlight. Judging by tonight’s efforts, they are more than ready. Hibs show fighting spirit If accusations of a soft underbelly have plagued Hibernian, tonight’s performance showed just as much as fight as any team this season. Traditionally, David Gray’s side have become accustomed to being dealt killer blows in added time. Now, he will hope they have got a taste for handing them out. To score not one, but two goals so late on is hardly indicative of a team that has given up and certain individuals, such as the monumental Bushiri, can take a fair bit of credit for an impressive comeback. Others, like Jordan Smith, less so. There seems to be nothing the manager can do to fix things during games, which are starting to look an awful lot like an exercise in constantly putting out small fires everywhere. Despite the fact that they were unable to hold on to their lead and overtake Hearts in the table, fans will take solace in the side’s determination tonight. Line-ups: Hibernian: Smith, Iredale (Boyle, 84′), Bushiri, O’Hora, Cadden, Newell, Triantis (Kwon Hyeok-Kyu, 75′), Miller, Hoilett (Campbell, 75′), Youan, Kuharevich (Gayle, 64′) Aberdeen: Mitov, MacKenzie, Molloy, Rubezic, Devlin (Milne, 83′), Heltne Nilsen, Shinnie, Duk (Sokler, 80), McGrath, Keskinen (Morris, 54′), Nisbet (Clarkson, 46′) Referee: Calum Scott Attendance: 15, 845

November 26, 2024

The Dons’ Bubble Bursts As Taylor Rises Highest

Aberdeen’s 11 game unbeaten run in the league game to a halt as St Mirren run out 2-1 winners in a wintery encounter in Paisley. The home side started on the front foot with Killian Phillips and Mark O’Hara dominating the middle of the park and McMenamin and Kiltie causing issues for the Aberdeen back line. McMenamin, off the back of a 2-goal performance against Hibernian flashed a shot just past the post, followed closely by a wicked volley from Tanser that whistled inches wide of the visitors’ goal in the opening stages of the game. It wasn’t long after these chances that Olusanya’s goal scoring run against Aberdeen continued. The lightning quick striker raced through on goal, calmly slotting through Mitov’s legs and put Saints 1-0 up just before the 20 minute mark, celebrating with his trademark knee slide. As the half went on the away side grew into the game. Shayden Morris in particular used his pace and trickery down the right hand side and drew a challenge from Alex Gogic. The Cypriot was flashed a red card from John Beaton, much to the dismay of the home crowd. What looked like a fair challenge, as the linesman flagged for a throw in, made for a confusing few minutes in the stands. Beaton was called to the monitor and overturned his decision. De-grading the red card to a yellow. Half Time: St Mirren 2-1 Aberdeen The away side looked dominant in the beginning of the 2nd half as Jimmy Thelin introduced attacking threats, Nisbet and Duk and it was the latter who used his blistering pace to his advantage, creating an opportunity for Jack MacKenzie but the defender couldn’t convert. He eventually reaped the rewards for his efforts as his cross found ex-St Mirren man Jamie McGrath who found space in the home side’s box and placed a fine finish into the bottom left corner. St Mirren didn’t let the equaliser derail what was a promising performance and some delightful footwork from Greg Kiltie found Elvis Bwomono in the box who squared it to McMenamin who should have done better with his effort, saved by the feet of Mitov. The home side continued to pile the pressure on and efforts from Kiltie and Mandron were inches away from doubling their advantage. With less than 10 minutes to go, a whipped corner from Captain Mark O’Hara found the head of Richard Taylor, who leapt high above the rest and bulleted the ball past a helpless Mitov. A late scare as Duk hit the post in the dying minutes, but the ball was eventually clear leading to jubilation in the home end. Fans and staff alike worked tirelessly to make sure the game was on and they got a result and performance from their side to match. The Dons fans praised their team at full time and will be proud of the run they have been on in what has been an incredible run of league performances. Aberdeen continue their poor form in Paisley with their last win coming in 2020 in the Scottish cup, and not winning a league game away to their hosts since 2018. Jimmy Thelin’s side will look to bounce back against a struggling Hibernian at Easter Road on Tuesday. Meanwhile Stephen Robinson’s men look ahead to a clash away to Dundee United in search of a 3rd consecutive win. Full time: St Mirren 2-1 Aberdeen Teams: St Mirren: Balcombe (GK), Taylor, Gogic, Fraser, Tanser, Bwomono, O’Hara (C), Phillips, Kiltie (Boyd-Munce, 90+1’), McMenamin (Mandron, 74’), Olusanya (Ayunga, 82’) Aberdeen: Mitov (GK), MacKenzie, Molloy, Rubežić, Devlin, Heltne Nilsen (Palaversa, 69’), Shinnie (C), McGrath (Besuijen, 85’), Clarkson (Nisbet, 46’), Morris (Keskinen, 69’), Sokler (Duk, 69’) Referee: John Beaton Attendance: 7533

November 24, 2024

Dons Surge Past Dundee with Dominant Second-Half Performance to Go Top of the Premiership

Aberdeen regained momentum in the Scottish Premiership, moving above Celtic after a powerful second-half display at Pittodrie, rebounding impressively from their League Cup semi-final setback against Dundee. Ante Palaversa opened the scoring with a composed finish, and just minutes later, Topi Keskinen doubled the lead, slipping the ball past Dundee goalkeeper Jon McCracken. Although Dundee fought back briefly, with Simon Murray heading home after an earlier missed penalty, Aberdeen quickly reasserted control. Substitute Vicente Besuijen, just seconds after coming on, latched onto Kevin Nisbet’s pass and restored Aberdeen’s two-goal cushion, with Nisbet himself adding a fourth via a deflected strike. Manager Jimmy Thelin praised his side’s character and composure, particularly in the strong opening of the second half. “We adjusted at half-time, focusing on staying calm,” he said. “I’m thrilled with the players’ response and the impact of our substitutes.” Dundee’s head coach Tony Docherty felt his side had been the better team in the first half and rued their missed chances and set-piece goals conceded. “It’s disappointing how we let those goals in,” Docherty commented. “Aberdeen didn’t have to do much to score, and we need to eliminate individual mistakes.” Despite a competitive first half and strong initial efforts from Dundee’s Oluweaseun Adewumi and Seb Palmer-Houldon, they couldn’t sustain the pressure or secure a first league victory at Pittodrie since 2004. Full time score Aberdeen 4-1 Dundee Attendance: 19,274

November 9, 2024

Preview – Aberdeen v Dundee

Aberdeen host Dundee in the evening fixture of the William Hill SPFL this weekend as Jimmy Thelin’s Dons look to bounce back after their semi-final drubbing last weekend. The Teams Aberdeen come into the fixture with an unbeaten league record and are still joint-top alongside Celtic. It was Thelin’s first defeat as Aberdeen manager in the 6-0 demolition against Celtic, and it is the first time we will see what kind of reaction the Dandies have after such a bruising defeat. Dundee come into the game with two wins in their last six and has been stuttering lately in trying to find some consistency. A late winner against Kilmarnock in their last fixture will have given the Dark Blues some confidence heading into the game, and they will be hoping to build on that. Previous meetings These two sides met earlier in the season, with Aberdeen prevailing 2-1, thanks to goals from Kevin Nisbet and Topi Keskinen. This isn’t a happy ground for Dundee, they havent recorded a victory in Aberdeen since 2004. They’ll take little solace in the previous two meetings being draws, but history tells us that Aberdeen will be strong favourites for all three points. Team news: Aberdeen are still without Dante Polvara and Papa Gueye but have flourished without them, thanks to the resurgent form of wantaway forward Duk. Dundee are still without influential defender Joe Shaughnessy. The club captain faces a fight to be fit before the end of the year after his severe knee injury. It’s the last fixture for either side before the international break as both teams look to build on previous league victories. It’s expected to be another packed-out Pittodrie and another that’ll be under the lights. Can Dundee cope with the atmosphere inside Pittodrie right now? Or will Aberdeen still have the nightmares of last week’s defeat in their heads? Predicted lineups: Aberdeen: Mitov; Devlin, Mackenzie, Molloy, Rubezic; Nilsen, Shinnie; Keskinen, Duk, McGrath; Sokler Dundee: McCracken; Astley, Portales, Robertson; Ingram, Cameron, Sylla, Larkeche; Palmer-Houlden, Adewumi; Murray

November 8, 2024

Look Ahead – Aberdeen v Rangers

Aberdeen will take on Rangers tonight in the blockbuster clash as Philippe Clement looks to cut the gap on the joint league leaders at Pittodrie. Jimmy Thelin’s Dons have been the season’s story so far, his side have won all but one game (the comeback draw at Celtic) under his tenure. It’ll be back-to-back games under the lights for the Dandies as they ran out 1-0 winners on Saturday night against Dundee Utd thanks to a late Peter Ambrose goal. The win keeps the Dons six points ahead of tonight’s visitors whilst also having a better goal difference. The Dons boss has confirmed that striker Kevin Nisbet faces a race against time to prove his fitness ahead of tonight’s clash. The striker has scored three goals since arriving on loan but was ruled out of Saturday’s win. “I think the physios are working really hard with him now so let’s see tomorrow.” Philippe Clement meanwhile brings his Rangers team to the Granite City on the back of a battling 2-1 victory over St. Mirren. The Gers were made to work hard for the three points after almost falling 2-1 behind if not for a VAR check. Club captain James Tavernier was surprisingly dropped to the bench on Sunday with Jack Butland being handed the armband. New signing Robin Propper has struggled to adapt to life in Scotland and only lasted 60 minutes against St. Mirren whilst regular centre-back John Souttar was absent through injury. Keep an ear out for the reaction for Connor Barron, the midfielder departed Aberdeen for Rangers in the summer and if Ryan Jack is anything to go by, the youngster is heading for a furious reaction from the Dons fans. The pressure has piled on Clement in recent weeks after suffering bad defeats in Europe and an uncharacteristic start to the league season. Defeat tonight would leave Rangers nine points adrift of the Dandies. The TV cameras are at sold-out Pittodrie for this one, the game will be live on Sky from 7:15 pm with kick-off from 8 pm.

October 30, 2024

Aberdeen

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