Aberdeen were left with their tails between their legs by a frustrating and defensively stubborn Motherwell side, says Voice reporter Andrew Watson.
Brisk weather conditions ensured the match would be an evenly contested outing, as opposed to the freakish winds that aided Barry Robson’s corner kick goal against St Mirren about a fortnight ago.
He insisted in an interview earlier, however, that it was entirely deliberate!
Moving on, Aberdeen had a clear cut chance very early on in the game, with Jonny Hayes sending a free header totally off target. His timely tackles throughout more than made up for this.
The Dons dominated most of the first half with chances aplenty. However, there was little incision, with many backward and side to side passing merely to maintain possession.
After the break, Motherwell came out resolved and ready to turn the tables on the Pittodrie side. Slack passing between Willo Flood and Ryan Jack gave opportunity for the Fir Park men to exploit.
0-1 (Lionel Ainsworth) after 49 minutes.
70 minutes into the game, defender Joe Shaughnessy left the pitch to be replaced by Josh Magennis. Fifteen minutes later, Robson came off for Craig Murray, and Calvin Zola came on for Scott Vernon.
I suppose it’s only karma that Aberdeen would have a seemingly legitimate goal disallowed. Why, only a fortnight ago, the Reds benefitted from a similar decision going against St Mirren.
The crowd’s reaction, a mixture of relief and euphoria was what you’d usually expect come a goal. However, there was a marked difference. No goal scorer mentioned over the tannoy system.
I daresay that they missed Mark Reynolds in the heart of defence. Also, starting with a player of the size and stature of Zola may have helped batter, bruise and weary the well drilled Steelmen.
Final score: 0-1.