Aberdeen FC suffered a frustrating defeat to Rangers at Pittodrie this week in a match described as having extremely low quality. The result leaves the Dons in 10th place in the Premiership standings with 3 points from three games, having a record of 1 win, 0 draws, and 2 losses.
Supporters were quick to voice their frustration following the match. Russell Black from Banchory slammed the standard of play and questioned the tactical choices made by Derek McInnes, who secured his first league win as Rangers boss during the visit. Black noted that while McInnes started Curtis, he believed Barron was needed in the middle to support a shaky defense.
Russell Black, Banchory said: "A match of extremely low quality, at least McInnes played Curtis from the start but he needs Barron in the middle so he can help a very unreliable defence! What is he thinking about?"
Several individuals highlighted the poor form of the visiting midfield. Drew Ferguson from Oban pointed out the lack of quality in that area, specifically noting that Dan Neil remained invisible throughout the contest. This sentiment was echoed by Gordon Hendry from Ochiltree, who claimed Dan Neil was a poor addition to the squad.
Hendry went further by suggesting Neil would not even earn a spot in the team managed by Tommy Sloan at Auchinleck Talbot. However, the same fan praised Minsu Kim for looking the part and mentioned new signing Kevin Kelsy as being of a similar quality to Kim.
Many felt that Aberdeen FC were victims of poor officiating. Andy Welsh argued that the pattern of decisions favored the visitors, specifically citing a penalty awarded to Rangers while the home side was denied one. Stephen Johnstone from Ardentinny added that Rangers were lucky to escape with a victory given the circumstances.
Andy Welsh said: "New season, same decisions for Rangers. Penalty Rangers, no penalty for Aberdeen. Not a bit surprised."
The match was a struggle for both sides. The Dons have struggled for goals this season, scoring only 2 and conceding 4, which leaves them with a minus 2 goal difference. They currently sit 6 points behind leaders Celtic, who John Scott from Grassmoor claims are adopting a trading model similar to Hibs by selling top players to fund replacements.
Aberdeen FC must also manage a significant number of absences. The injuries list currently includes Bradley Lyons, Emmanuel Gyamfi, Kristers Tobers, and Kusini Yengi. This lack of depth may impact the squad as they look to climb the table.
Stephen Mulhern from Dumbarton compared the shock of the result to Novak Djokovic losing in the first round of the American Open. The team now looks ahead to their next fixture against 6th place Motherwell at home on 2026-12-30.
