Aberdeen, under manager Jimmy Thelin, made a powerful statement with a thrilling 2-1 win over Rangers, intensifying the pressure on Rangers manager Philippe Clement. In a packed Pittodrie Stadium, the Dons showcased their strength in an electric first-half display, securing a nine-point lead over their Glasgow rivals and moving level on points with Celtic at the top of the Scottish Premiership.
Nicky Devlin opened the scoring for Aberdeen early on, lashing in a shot that capped off the hosts’ intense start. Aberdeen had several chances to extend their lead, with Graeme Shinnie hitting the woodwork and Jamie McGrath missing a penalty that was saved by Rangers goalkeeper Jack Butland. Despite Aberdeen’s missed opportunities, the Dons’ dominance was evident, and they would have taken a deserved three-goal lead at half-time.
Rangers, however, fought back in the second half. After an offside call disallowed a goal from Ross McCausland, Nedim Bajrami’s impressive solo effort brought the visitors level. But Aberdeen’s resilience held firm; substitute Shayden Morris capitalized on a rebound to put the Dons back in the lead, sending the home crowd into raptures and sealing a crucial win.
While Thelin tempered title talk, acknowledging it was “still early,” his team has now taken four points from Celtic and Rangers combined, demonstrating that they are a serious force under his management.
The result was another setback for Rangers, who now sit nine points behind both Celtic and Aberdeen. Clement, who has struggled to impose a cohesive style on the team, praised his players’ effort but acknowledged the need for improvement. The manager lamented the loss, describing it as a missed opportunity, with James Tavernier narrowly missing a stoppage-time header that could have leveled the score.
Aberdeen’s intensity highlighted a stark contrast to Rangers’ defensive weaknesses, which have haunted them for months. Former Rangers striker Kris Boyd remarked on Sky Sports, “Aberdeen are everything Rangers aren’t,” summing up the feeling of frustration for Rangers fans as they endure a disappointing campaign.
Aberdeen manager Jimmy Thelin was full of praise for his team and the atmosphere at Pittodrie: “Our first half was really, really strong… I know how hard the players try and work, but it’s also how they react. They believe in each other. I’m so glad for them.”
Rangers manager Philippe Clement, while acknowledging his team’s effort, called for introspection: “It’s disappointing to lose the three points… It’s about taking lessons. There’s still a lot to work on.”
As Aberdeen celebrate their rising status, Rangers are left searching for answers, their title hopes slipping as Thelin’s men and Celtic continue to set the pace.
