League Cup holders Aberdeen are through to the semis after a hard fought victory against a flying Hamilton side, says Andrew Watson.
Though Aberdeen had the lion’s share of chances, the Accies did at times put the home side under significant pressure.
The first happening of note saw Niall McGinn through on goal via an Adam Rooney ball, only to be thwarted by the keeper who was excellent throughout.
The duo later switched things up minutes after, this time McGinn the supplier and Rooney the recipient.
He came in with a spectacular diving header for Niall’s free kick. The keeper had no chance.
1-0 after 24 minutes!
Jonny Hayes and Peter Pawlett ran rampant on the wings, and contributed immeasurably to most of Aberdeen’s attack.
One incident saw Hamilton’s number one, Michael McGovern, display catlike reflexes, tipping over a teammate’s deflection in the penalty area.
In the second half it was time for the Dandies’ man between the sticks, Scott Brown, to perform similar heroics, twice, from close range.
Seemingly unstoppable shots were thumped towards his goal, and he somehow summoned the wherewithal to palm them away.
Winger Pawlett came off the pitch to be replaced by Cammy Smith 66 minutes into the game. Twenty four minutes later, Barry Robson came on for McGinn.
The Red Army will be happy, in a way, that Aberdeen’s makeshift back four are growing stubborn and are not losing any stupid goals as of late. Long may the clean sheets continue!
Final score: 1-0.