Old Aberdonians travelled to Cove’s Catto Park knowing they would face a tough test against the Premier League side. The Abos lined up facing a strong wind and sleet showers but looked to have a well-balanced line up as they kicked off.

After some scrappy passing in the first few minutes the Abos were suddenly one goal down. A harmless Cove through ball seemed to be on its way into the hands of MacLeod but as he bent to collect the ball an unfortunate bobble saw it slip through his grasp. The alert Cove striker was left with a simple task to roll the ball into an empty net from five yards.

The Abos continued to try to stick to their usual style of football but perhaps should have adapted more quickly to the conditions. After some decent football they quickly lost possession leaving the back four exposed as Cove attacked down the slope. Rory Fraser appeared to have got himself into a position to clear the danger but the conditions and uncertainty again conspired to allow Cove to take a two goal lead.

The away side had almost exited the cup before they had even troubled the Cove keeper but despite the early setbacks the Abos began to force their way into the match. The midfield four secured more possession and Henderson and Wilson were beginning to trouble the Cove full-backs.

Despite this improved play another break away resulted in a third goal for Cove. After working the ball on to the left wing a quick shot skidded off the surface into the net via the near post taking keeper MacLeod by surprise.

The Abos had taken encouragement from some of the possession football they had played before the loss of the third goal and deservedly pulled a goal back just before half-time. More strong running down the right by Henderson saw space open up in the final third and he played the ball across the penalty area towards Murt. The ball fell slightly behind the striker but Wilson had joined the attack and drove the ball back across goal into the bottom right corner of the net to make it 3-1.

Despite the difficult first half the Abos sensed they were still in it and now had the advantage of the slope and the strong wind behind them. The game began to become scrappy as the referee’s youthful enthusiasm and inventiveness saw Cove’s number 18 booked for a dive in the Abos penalty area when most onlookers expected him to point to the penalty spot after a tug by Abo’s Bruce.

As the Abos began to control possession it was again Henderson who was involved in the build up to their second goal. After good work by Cameron and Ashton in midfield Henderson closed in on goal and as he went round the keeper he was tripped resulting in a penalty for Old Aberdonians. Ashton stepped up and calmly fired the ball into the net to give the away side hope as the game entered the closing stages.

Some more pressure for the Abos saw the ball fired across goal by Craig but there were no takers. An excellent drive by Ashton was then tipped around the post by the Cove keeper when the ball seemed destined for the net.

As the game entered the closing stages Clark replaced Craig and the Abos committed more men to the attack. This was rewarded with a few minutes remaining when the ball broke to MacArthur who struck a magnificent drive from fully thirty yards into the corner of the net to equalise the match at 3-3.

As extra-time kicked off Old Aberdonians’ commitment and work rate had taken its toll and having used all of their substitutes it was left to the same eleven players who finished the match to battle for a result.

Things looked up for the away side when more dissent from Cove’s number 5 saw him heading to the changing rooms early after he was shown his second yellow card. This seemed to fire up the remaining Cove players and a quick break away saw a clever through ball cutting open the Abos defence and a calm finish made it 4-3 to Thistle.

The Abos continued to battle for a result and this time it was Stewart Fraser who was rewarded for his excellent work rate throughout the match. As the ball broke to the striker at the edge of the box he calmly looked up, picked his spot and guided the ball into the top corner of the net with his left foot. An excellent goal to tie the match at 4-4.

There was little incident of note in the second half of extra-time and the game appeared to be heading for a penalty shoot-out as the Abos defence stood firm. Some pressure from Cove resulted in a number of corners which posed little threat but a lack of communication at the near post saw confusion at the front post. To the surprise and disappointment of the away side the ball bounced into the net giving Cove the vital goal for a 5-4 victory.

Old Aberdonians should be proud of the effort, commitment and teamwork that went into this competitive match against a team challenging for the Premier League but will be disappointed that several of the Cove goals came about after mistakes. The goals from MacArthur and Fraser should be kept in mind by the goal of the season judging panel at the end of the season.

Old Aberdonians – MacLeod, R Fraser, Craig, Good, MacArthur, Ashton, Henderson, Cameron, S Fraser, Murt, Wilson. Subs – Bruce (R Fraser), D Clark (Craig)

Aberdeen FC Trophy Third Round on Saturday 3rd December at Balgownie

Old Aberdonians continued their recent run of cup ties with a home game against Alford in the Aberdeen F.C. Trophy. It appeared to be a favourable tie on paper but Alford went into the game showing a good run of form in Division 2 (North).

The Abos dominated possession in the first half but they failed to create any clear chances as Alford seemed content to soak up the pressure and attack on the break. Space began to open up on the right wing where Munro and Marshall combined to deliver crosses into the box.

After a number of corners the home side came close to opening the scoring when the ball somehow managed to stay out of Alford’s net despite MacArthur appearing to do enough to secure a precious lead.

Murison replaced Russell at half time and Old Aberdonians started the half strongly with a greater sense of purpose and pace to their passing. Wilson and Murison were getting the better of the Alford right back but despite a number of positive attacking moves no clear chances materialised.

Alford were able to hold the ball up successfully in forward areas and a period of pressure secured a corner for the away side. An accurate, driven cross was met powerfully by the Alford No. 6 giving his side a 1-0 lead.

Old Aberdonians continued to maintain the majority of possession but a lack of quality movement and a failure to stretch the Alford defence meant they failed to seriously test the Division 2 side.

Alford seemed to grow stronger as the final whistle approached and their tactics and commitment paid off to see them into the fourth round of the cup.

Old Aberdonians – MacLeod, Munro, Russell, Craig, MacArthur, Ashton, Marshall, Cameron, Fraser, Murt, Wilson. Subs – Murison (Russell), Johnston (Murison), Boutillier (Munro)

Association Trophy Second Round on Saturday 26th November at Hazlehead

Despite the mild weather and bright sunshine the Abos took to the field for their warm up wishing they had their wellies rather than their football boots. The tight, heavy pitch could have presented a problem for the away side but they were determined to impose themselves in the early stages.

With the high winds playing a part it took some time for either side to settle. Lads Club favoured a long ball game and as the passes held up in the breeze Clark did well to collect the ball despite pressure from the home side’s forwards.

The Abos began to secure more controlled possession and Henderson was making progress on the right wing. Marshall and Fraser were finding it hard to run at the Lads Club defence as the ball stuck in the mud allowing the home defenders to make the most of sliding tackles.

MacArthur and Craig realised that they could assist in attack as they failed to be put under pressure at the back. After MacArthur broke up an attack Craig picked up possession on the edge of the Lads Club penalty box and worked the ball to Wilson. The Abos captain picked out Henderson at the back post and the Tarves Telly Savalas did well to compose himself before squaring the ball to his lookalike Marshall who finished calmly giving the Abos a half-time lead.

Lads Club took control of the early stages of the second half and pinned the Abos in their own half. The wind had picked up and as the home team’s midfielders joined the attack Old Aberdonians were forced to defend for long spells. Space began to open up on the left for Russell but it became increasingly difficult to maintain possession as the pitch cut up.

Fraser and Marshall upped their work rate realising that they were unlikely to be supplied with any quality passes. “Toepoke” Fraser was rewarded for his commitment when he fought to keep the ball in to prevent a goal kick for Lads Club. Despite the protests of the ‘keeper the Abos forward forced the ball into the six yard box where it struck the hand of a Lads Club defender. The referee instantly awarded a penalty and although it appeared to be “ball to hand” it was probably the correct decision. Ashton stepped up and did well to send the keeper the wrong way while driving the ball low into the net.

The Abos appeared to be in a comfortable position but Lads Club knew they were capable of getting back into the game. They committed more men into attacking positions and when Abos’ Clark shouted for a long ball there appeared to be no danger. As the ball approached the custodian it seemed to stick in the mud and trundled through the keeper’s legs. The Lads Club striker accepted the gift to get his team back into the match.

Old Aberdonians replied in brilliant fashion when Marshall’s perseverance was rewarded. He dispossessed the Lads Club defenders before advancing into the penalty area and finishing clinically restoring a two goal cushion. Boutillier replaced Ashton in centre midfield and narrowly failed to connect with a cross after linking well with Henderson.

Lads Club continued to fight for a lifeline in the closing stages and after a fortunate ricochet the ball fell into the path of the home team’s No.9 who showed his class with a good quality finish.

The referee soon blew the final whistle to the relief of Old Aberdonians. The Abos deserved their victory on a heavy pitch which provided ideal preparation for the next round against Cove at Catto Park.

Old Aberdonians – D Clark, Munro, Russell, Craig, MacArthur, Ashton, Henderson, Cameron, Marshall, Fraser, Wilson – Subs – Boutillier (Ashton) Unused – Wyness, Good, McLennan

North of Scotland Cup Second Round on Saturday 19th November at Kintore

Old Aberdonians returned to cup action as they faced Kintore in the North of Scotland Cup. Having already defeated the Premier side earlier in the season the away side were confident but not complacent as they started on the heavy, sloping surface.

The Abos immediately took control of the match and moved the ball quickly through the back four and the midfield. After some skilful running by Fraser the ball broke to the lively Wilson at the edge of the box and he guided the ball into the corner of the net to make it 1-0.

Kintore failed to respond and it was all way one way traffic as Munro and Henderson made the most of the acres of space on the right wing. After some intricate passing a dangerous cross caused panic in the Kintore defence and the central defender turned the ball past his own keeper to make it 0-2.

Wilson seemed to be making the most of the space in midfield areas and was determined to add to his goal tally for the day. Cameron, Ashton and Marshall were causing constant problems for Kintore and when the ball was fed to Wilson he looked up and fired the ball high into the net giving the custodian no chance.

Continued pressure was forcing the home team into some careless fouls around the edge of the penalty area. Just before half-time a free kick was played to the back post and the Kintore defenders were posted missing. Cameron controlled the bouncing ball and powered a shot into the net to make it 4-0 at half-time.

Half-time: 0-4

Murt replaced Marshall at half-time and took advantage of the continued supply of possession provided by Russell down the left wing. Kintore showed a little more determination to get back into the game but any half chances were comfortably dealt with by MacLeod in the Abos’ goal.

Creegan reminded the Abos not to be complacent and the away side improved as the ball remained in the Kintore half for prolonged periods. After the home side’s defenders failed to clear the ball it broke to Ashton who showed his class with a composed finish.
Space continued to allow Murt and Wilson to combine down the left wing and after breaking into the box the Abo’s captain rolled the ball into the path of Fraser who scored with an accurate finish.

Kintore continued to spiral towards defeat and after questioning the referee’s performance worse was to come when the Abos were awarded a penalty after another clumsy challenge by the home side’s right back. It was all too much for the chunky Kintore centre half and after expressing his disgust at the referee he was rewarded with a red card and first choice of the beers and pies in the pavilion. Wilson secured his hat-trick with a powerful penalty high into the net as the keeper dived the wrong way.

A comfortable and composed performance by the Abos secured progress into the third round of the North of Scotland Cup showing they have the potential to challenge for honours this season.

Full Time: 0-7

Old Aberdonians – MacLeod, Munro, Russell, Craig, MacArthur, Ashton, Henderson, Cameron, Marshall, Fraser, Wilson

Subs – Murt (Marshall), D Clark (Ashton), Murison (unused)

Old Aberdonians 2 – 3 Lochend

Scottish Amateur Cup Third Round on Saturday 5th November at Balownie

Old Aberdonians faced Lochend AFC from Edinburgh in the third round of the Scottish Cup at Balgownie. The visitors were something of an unknown quantity but their pedigree in the Sunday Scottish Amateur Cup suggested the Abos would not have an easy afternoon.

After some slack passing in the opening stages Old Aberdonians settled into the match and deservedly took the lead. After making good use of the space in wide areas the ball was worked to Wilson who finished accurately.

Lochend seemed to be struggling defensively but always posed a threat with their No.10 enjoying a free role in midfield. The Abos seemed to be comfortably dealing with any threats but when possession was given away inside the home team’s half Lochend capitalised. Accurate passing and intelligent movement off the ball allowed space to open up and the ball was clinically finished to tie the match.

Old Aberdonians did not allow their heads to go down and quickly re-established their lead. A quick break involving several Abos players resulted in the ball falling to the influential Cameron. Despite Lochend managing to get bodies behind the ball the Abos midfielder combined accuracy with power to ensure the ball nestled in the net to give the Abos a 2-1 half-time lead.

Half-time: 2-1

Despite the positive score-line Old Aberdonians failed to start the second half with confidence and Lochend began to take control of possession. Constant pressure soon took its toll on the Abos’ defence and although Lochend did not test MacLeod the ball found its way into the net for the equaliser. When the ball landed in the home side’s penalty area Macarthur was first to the ball but his clearance ricocheted off the Lochend centre forward and into the net.

Lochend seemed to be the only team who looked likely to score the decisive winning goal. When their left winger picked up the ball thirty yards out he evaded the Abos defenders with ease, advanced into the penalty area and smashed the ball into the top right hand corner of the net. The fantastic strike gave Macleod no chance but the Abos’ defending was very disappointing.

With little appetite for a replay Old Aberdonians seemed to fade in the closing stages of the match.
A late, dangerous tackle on Abos’ Barr provided the final talking point of the match. Frustration seemed to get the better of the diminutive midfielder and after some pushing and shoving between the two players both Barr and the Lochend midfielder were red carded.

Inexplicably, the Lochend No.9 also got involved in the fracas and after swinging his arm at Craig he was also sent off. After questioning the referee’s honesty it is unlikely the Lochend centre forward will feature on the pitch until well into 2012.

Old Aberdonians failed to make the most of the numerical advantage and lacked the quality and commitment to score a third goal. They exited the Scottish Cup with little credit and can only be thankful that they will avoid a fixture pile up over the winter months.

Full Time: 2-3

Old Aberdonians – MacLeod, Johnston, Murison, Craig, MacArthur, Barr, Henderson, Cameron, Murt, Marshall, Wilson.

Subs – Russell, Ashton, Fraser. Unused – Robertson, Boutillier

Division One (East) on Saturday 22nd October at Rothienorman

Old Aberdonians travelled to Rothienorman on league duty expecting their toughest test of the season so far. Rothie Rovers had yet to taste defeat in the league at home and had conceded very few goals. Creegan was able to select from a strong Abos squad and went for the returning McLeod in goals, Murison at left-back and the cultured Barr in a creative midfield role.

The Abos took to the immaculate surface with a real sense of purpose and a commitment to playing a passing game. MacLeod’s confidence on the ball allowed the back four to maintain control of possession which in turn opened up space in midfield. It was inevitable that the first chance would go to the away side and after some good build up play Marshall was unlucky to see his effort hit the crossbar after pressure from the Rothie goalie forced him to stab at the ball at full stretch.

Barr and Ashton seemed to be revelling in the possession and space they had in midfield and continued to stretch their opponents in central areas. After continued pressure and several chances the Abos got the goal they deserved when the ball was worked to the left hand side. Wilson accelerated into the box and accurately finished in the bottom corner to give the graduates a deserved 1-0 lead.

Despite seeing very little of the ball Rothie were soon back in the game. Their preferred long ball style caused problems for the Abos defence and as it dropped into the right channel Craig hesitated and allowed the ball to bounce. While he appeared to be in a position to clear the danger he lost his footing and presented the Rothie striker with an easy chance to equalise. The ball was dispatched into the net to make it 1-1.

Old Aberdonians’ concentration seemed to lapse for a spell. The Rovers took a quick shy and a lack of pressure at the edge of the box allowed the Rothie No. 8 to strike the bouncing ball into the lower left corner of the net giving the home side a surprise lead.

The Abos realised a quick reply would give them hope for the second half and they equalised immediately. More high quality football allowed the ball to be worked to the right wing. The influential Henderson looked up and delivered an excellent cross into the penalty area where it found the familiar head of Murt. The experienced striker made no mistake and sent the ball back across goal, powerfully nestling in the top corner of the net.

Half-time: 2-2

Old Aberdonians quickly re-established their dominance at the start of the second half making greater use of long passes in order to capitalise on the space that Rothie’s high defensive line afforded them. Murison began to see more of the ball and his progress down the left wing also allowed Wilson to become more influential. When the left back swung in a dangerous cross the powerful Murt again attacked the ball and his header gave the Abos a well-deserved 3-2 lead.

Rothie were determined to push forward but MacLeod dealt with any threats comfortably. Abos’ Marshall continued to terrorise the Rovers’ back four and his pace allowed him to advance on goal. He seemed to do everything right but was disappointed to see his shot hit the right-hand post and trickle along the goal-line before being cleared for a corner.

Marshall took the corner himself and a well-worked routine saw him pick out strike partner Murt lurking at the back of the eighteen yard box. The Duncan Shearer of the Abos guided a header into the roof of the net to secure his hat-trick and establish a two goal lead.

Fraser replaced Murt and immediately made an impact as he ran into the spaces behind the Rovers full-backs. The home side became frustrated and Johnston, Marshall and Fraser all found themselves on the receiving end of some clumsy challenges. Despite this the Abos continued to stretch their opposition’s defence and added a further two goals in the closing stages of the match.

Stephen had replaced Henderson and as space opened up he was presented with a simple chance to find the net and make it 5-2. The scoring concluded as the hard working Fraser comfortably finished a flowing move as the Rovers defence were posted missing shortly before the final whistle.

An assured performance by Old Aberdonians showing the level of football they can deliver if all players work to their potential. This must continue in all league matches if the Abos are to mount a concerted challenge for promotion.

Full Time: 2-6

Old Aberdonians – MacLeod, Johnston, Murison, Craig, MacArthur, Ashton, Henderson, Barr, Wilson, Murt, Marshall. Subs – Fraser (Murt), Stephen (Henderson), Munro (Barr), Robertson, Russell

Aberdeen FC Trophy Second Round on Saturday 15th October at Balgownie

The Abos continued their recent run of home games facing their league rivals Johnshaven in the Aberdeen FC Trophy. Good weather and a pitch in perfect condition provided the conditions for some attractive football. Creegan handed a debut to Henderson on the right side of midfield and apart from fielding D Clark in goal the home side had a settled and balanced shape.

After a fairly scrappy opening Old Aberdonians began to make the most of the excellent surface and after an intricate passing move Cameron found space on the edge of the Johnshaven penalty area. He struck a precise and powerful shot into the right of the goal to open the scoring. To the amazement of the home team the referee appeared to be puzzled by the celebrations of the team in yellow and failed to award the goal. Presumably he is a fan of legendary Scottish ref Les Mottram and not a fan of watching the ball as it crosses the line and rebounds off the stanchion!

Johnshaven took encouragement from the referee’s helping hand and began to threaten the Abos back four by committing a large number of men forward. Clark did well to race off his line to clear the danger on a couple of occasions and comfortably saved any shots from distance.

Half-time: 0-0

The Abos started the second half confident that an early goal would give them the encouragement needed to win the tie. Despite enjoying more controlled possession it was only when Murt replaced Fraser that the Abos imposed themselves on the match. After an intelligent long ball from McArthur, Murt showed great strength and composure to make his way into the penalty area before picking out Marshall for a simple finish.

The home side took confidence from the opening goal and seemed more determined in the tackle. Wilson did extremely well to recover the ball inside his own half and then surged forward in search of the second goal. After good interplay through centre midfield the ball was worked to Henderson on the right of the penalty box. He did extremely well to evade his marker and his cross fell to the edge of the penalty area. The determined Wilson joined the attack and fired an excellent low shot into the bottom right hand corner of the net leaving the Johnshaven keeper rooted to the spot to make it 2-0.

Despite the Abo’s 2-0 lead Johnshaven continued to believe they could achieve a result as they made alterations to their formation pushing a centre half and midfielder into the centre forward positions. Although the home side seemed to be dealing with the Johnshaven threat the ball found its way to the right wing and a familiar lack of pressure from the Abos allowed the winger to flight an excellent cross into the penalty area. Craig had been drawn towards the ball and failed to clear allowing the Johnshaven striker a simple header to make it 2-1.

The Abos failed to buckle under the pressure and continued to press forward to secure their progress into the next round. Determined tackling by Johnston just inside his own half secured possession for the Abos and the ball was worked into space on the right channel for Marshall. He drove into the box and returned the favour to strike partner Murt who held off the defenders to finish, restoring a two goal advantage for Old Aberdonians.

Johnshaven continued to commit players into forward positions to salvage a late result. A free header at the back post resulted in a near miss and should have encouraged the Abos to be more vigilant but Johshaven soon found the net for a second time. Tired legs allowed space to open up and the Johnshaven striker advanced into the box. Despite pressure from Clark which forced the player wide he did extremely well to force the ball into the net from a tight angle.

Old Aberdonians were able to control possession from the re-start and despite the narrow margin of the victory they fully deserved their place in the 3rd round.

Full Time: 3-2

Old Aberdonians – D Clark, Johnston, Russell, Craig, McArthur, Ashton, Henderson, Cameron, Wilson, Marshall, Fraser

Subs – Munro (Russell), Murt (Fraser), MacLennan (Ashton)

Scottish Cup Second Round on Saturday 8th October at Balgownie

The road to Hampden started with a home game for the Old Aberdonians as they entertained Ellon Thistle in the second round of the Scottish Cup. Creegan made a number of changes to the starting line-up to ensure the Abos would a secure a win after two disappointing results. Fraser was restored to his preferred role up front while Ashton returned and slotted into the right side of midfield.

The Abos started with a clear desire to play football combined with a more combative style that has been absent at times this season. Cameron imposed himself on the match and despite some strong challenges from the Thistle midfield he used possession well allowing Wilson, Marshall and Fraser to stretch the away team’s back four.

The first goal of the match came when Fraser found himself with an opportunity to run at the pedestrian Ellon back four. They could not cope with his pace and his understanding with Marshall paid off as he cut it back to his strike partner who finished accurately making it 1-0 to the Abos.

Old Aberdonians continued to apply concerted pressure and were controlling the play in all areas of the field. MacLeod distributed the ball through the back four allowing space to open up in wide areas of the pitch. Wilson made the most of this as he advanced into the Thistle penalty box facing very little resistance. When the well-built Ellon No. 4 clumsily lunged towards the ball there was no doubt that the referee would point to the spot as Wilson was sent sprawling. Johnston stepped forward to take the kick but his spot kick was sent straight down the middle of the goal allowing the keeper to make a comfortable save.

This did not dent the home team’s confidence and they soon added to their goal tally. Good football allowed space to open up on the edge of the box and when it was cut back to Wilson he made no mistake finishing with a rising shot into the net.

The Abos left winger was having an excellent game and when he again found he had space on the flank he advanced into the box. This time Wilson chose to finish his run himself and skilfully placed the ball into the corner of the net to make it 3-0.

Despite the confident performance by Old Aberdonians they lost a goal in a rare attack by Ellon Thistle. After Johnston failed to win the ball on the halfway line, challenges by Robertson and Craig failed to retrieve the ball for the Abos. A fortunate bounce fell to the advancing Thistle midfielder and he unleashed an excellent shot which just beat MacLeod and gave Ellon Thistle some encouragement for the rest of the game.

The Abos became unsettled for the first time in the match but they soon restored their three goal advantage when a corner was attacked by Cameron and although it appeared to go in off a defender the Abos midfielder was happy to claim the goal.

Half-time: 4-1

Ellon Thistle started the second half in a determined mood but the new look Abos back four remained comfortable in defence. MacLeod ensured the home side remained on the offensive with quick goal kicks to Russell and Robertson ensuring that spaces opened up further up the field.

Fraser and Munro began to tire after a strenuous first half and were replaced by Murt and Stephen in attack as Marshall moved into midfield. Stephen instantly applied himself and seemed determined to increase the lead for the Abos. After some good football involving several players he found himself in space and drove forward into the penalty box. He carefully picked his spot and the ball found the net off the left-hand post.

Ashton had moved into a central midfield role and seemed to be enjoying the opportunity to control possession. An intelligent and well-timed run by Murt allowed the midfielder to play a weighted pass into the experienced striker’s path. As Murt made his way into the box he accelerated past the advancing Ellon keeper giving himself an easy finish to make it 6-1 to Old Aberdonians.

A much improved performance for the Abos as they controlled possession and scored some excellent goals. The Scottish Cup dream continues!

Old Aberdonians – MacLeod, Robertson, Russell, Craig, Johnston, Munro, Ashton, Cameron, Fraser, Marshall, Wilson. Subs – Stephen (Fraser), Murt (Munro), Clark (Wilson)

Division One (East) on Saturday 1st October at Balgownie

The Abos returned to Balgownie for the first time this season and knew they would be in for a competitive match against varsity rivals RGIT RGU.

MacLeod made his debut in goals for the Abos after a protracted transfer saga and showed signs of confidence as he played the ball out through the back four in the early stages of the match. RGU began to impose themselves on the match with their strength in midfield and pace up front causing problems for the Abos defence.

When Old Aberdonians managed to settle into their passing game they showed they were more than capable of opening the scoring. Some assured passing down the left and through midfield created openings for Marshall and Cameron but on both occasions the greasy surface and heavy touches resulted in the chances fading as the RGU keeper gathered the ball.

The athletic RGU continued to pressurise the Abos back four resulting in a number of corners for the away side. Although the home defence seemed to be coping with the aerial threat, continued pressure eventually told for the opening goal. After two attempted clearances the ball was driven back into the penalty box. The RGU left back was lurking on the edge of the six yard box and guided the ball into the corner of the net to make it 1-0 to the away side.

More pressure and good football resulted in another opening for RGU shortly before the break. A powerful shot from the edge of the box seemed likely to sneak into the net off the post. MacLeod dived at full stretch to tip the ball away to safety and give the Abos encouragement for the second half.

Half-time: 0-1

Old Aberdonians started the second half positively, making better use of possession and working hard to offer options for their team-mates. Munro and Cameron began to get to grips with their opposition counterparts and were moving the ball quickly allowing Murison and Wilson to advance more effectively down the left wing.

RGU continued to threaten but Abos’ keeper MacLeod’s handling was assured in the drizzly conditions. The referee was forced to award a free kick to RGU after several physical challenges on the edge of the box resulted in the home side regaining possession unfairly. The Abos were relieved to see the resulting long range shot cannon off the cross-bar.

Russell had replaced Murison at left-back and he combined well with Wilson and Cameron giving the Abos hope of a late equaliser. Craig anticipated a defensive clearance from RGU but his tame shot from the edge of the box was easily dealt with by the keeper.

With a few minutes left on the clock Russell picked out Murt with an excellent through ball and although the striker drove forward after a good first touch he could not do enough to salvage a point for Old Aberdonians.

A determined performance but a disappointing result for the Abos in their quest for promotion. On this form it looks like RGU will certainly be challenging for the Division One (East) title.

Full Time: 0-1

Old Aberdonians – MacLeod, Robertson, Murison (Russell), Craig, McArthur, Munro, Cameron, Fraser (Farrell), Wilson, Marshall, Stephen (Murt)

Unused Sub – Wyness

Division One (East) on Saturday 24th September at Wairds Park, Johnshaven

The Abos travelled to Johnshaven and were greeted by a surprisingly sunny day and a lack of wind on the Mearns Riviera. Farrell dressed for the occasion with an interesting “Topman by the Sea” outfit bringing a new meaning to “camping” at the caravan park. Creegan shuffled the starting line-up but still started with a strong eleven despite being forced to field himself in goal.

In common with many of the Abos games this season the game took a while to settle as both teams struggled to string passes together on the bobbly pitch. When the Abos did begin to play well chosen passes it soon led to the first goal of the match for the away side.

Excellent work by Wilson on the left allowed him to find space to pick out Marshall with an excellent cross. The striker’s heading practice paid off as he skilfully guided the ball into the corner of the net. Old Aberdonians began to grow in confidence and they soon added to their tally as an excellent through ball allowed Cameron to accurately place the ball in the net to make it 2-0 to the away side.

Despite the Abos appearing to be in a comfortable position a lack of communication and hesitation in the back four allowed Johnshaven to get a goal back. A hopeful through ball was pursued by the home team’s No. 8 and Creegan did enough to ensure the ball struck the post. The Abos players failed to get back behind the ball to help their keeper resulting in a simple goal for the more determined Johnshaven.

The Abos continued to stick to their passing game and some good possession allowed Cameron to find space. He drove forward to the edge of the box and unleashed a powerful shot which seemed to slip through the fingers of the youthful Johnshaven keeper.

Following several corners for Johnshaven the Abos appeared to be defending strongly but their desire to play football from the back led to a second goal for Johnshaven. A quick throw out from Creegan to Munro appeared to be risky and when the ball became stuck under Munro’s foot a last ditched challenge by Craig was not enough as the “Johnner” striker smashed the ball into the right hand stanchion to make it 2-3.

As the Johnshaven players increased in confidence the Abos’ heads began to go down and when the home team took another corner a lack of a clear challenge from the defending side resulted in the equaliser.

Half-time: 3-3

The second half saw two teams who were fairly well matched in midfield resulting in few clear chances with neither goalkeeper being seriously tested. Stephen replaced Clark and he was unlucky as an error by the Johnshaven keeper almost gifted the Abos a fourth goal. The striker was taken by surprise and was unable to make the most of the opportunity.

The Abos returned to a more controlled passing game but some poor decision making in the final third and some excellent blocking tackles kept the score at 3-3. On a positive note, the Abos back four performed strongly in the second half with McArthur and Murison combining well to break up any Johnshaven attacks while also contributing to the team’s attempts at scoring a vital goal.

Full Time: 3-3

Old Aberdonians – Creegan, Munro, Murison, Craig, McArthur, Barr, D Clark (Stephen), Cameron, Wilson (Russell), Marshall, Fraser (Farrell)

Unused Sub – Robertson