Dons fans urged to play their part in race for second

Aberdeen manager Derek McInnes has called on the Dons supporters to fill Pittodrie and roar the team on to a second-place finish.

The Dons face a season-defining week to end the season as they bid to secure the runners-up spot in the Premiership.

Home victories against Hibernian on Saturday and Rangers on Tuesday would secure that coveted second spot for a fourth season in a row, with a trip to champions Celtic a fitting finale to the season at Parkhead a week on Sunday.

McInnes has called on the Aberdeen supporters to play their part by filling Pittodrie.

He said: “Everyone expected Celtic and Rangers to take the top two spots and they should do with the resources they have but both Hibs and ourselves are trying our best to upset the odds and both clubs deserve credit for that.

“By beating Hearts, the Hibs game has become even more important. I expect Pittodrie to be full and the players will be bursting to play their part.

“We picked a team to play the opposition on Friday and we’ll do the same against Hibs. With a big crowd behind us, hopefully we can do the business and pick up another three points.”

McInnes has been impressed by Hibs’ strong finish to the season under manager Neil Lennon but he knows victory for his side this weekend will put the Dons in a strong position.

He said: “The concept of the top six is working this season as we’re getting fantastic games and it has been a real positive for the league.

“We have three games left and both clubs have done really well this season. We’re looking forward to the final three games and we’re looking forward to a cracker against Hibernian.

McInnes will have to make one enforced change as Kenny McLean misses the game due to suspension.