Timely lift for Dons as champions lie in wait

AFC: It may not make up for Ibrox but Reds Well-set to face the Celts

Aberdeen manager Derek McInnes hopes Saturday’s win at Motherwell can begin to heal supporters’ wounds.

The Dons suffered a humiliating 5-0 defeat in their previous away trip – at Rangers – but bounced back in impressive fashion with a stylish performance in the 3-0 win at Fir Park.

McInnes said: “This still doesn’t make up for Ibrox but hopefully our fans enjoyed watching their team. We have been battered from pillar to post and it’s not easy at the moment but I’m sure we will do well. We’re only eight games into a season. The league doesn’t settle down until the turn of the year.

“Our response against Hibs with 10 men and then this performance augurs well for us.”

Aberdeen’s dismantling of the Steelmen was built on a solid central midfield partnership of Zak Vyner and Greg Leigh.

The on-loan full-backs combined in impressive fashion, with Leigh setting up Sam Cosgrove for his opener before Vyner scored a terrific third goal.

The Dons boss was pleased to see both players rewarded for their efforts in unfamiliar roles.

He said: “The power of Vyner and Leigh and the running power of Jon Gallagher were at the heart of our performance. They were outstanding.”

“Zak popped up with a goal which was a bit unexpected. We

wanted him to do a specific role and he did it brilliantly. He has the athleticism to get up and down. I feel it can be a position for him going forward.”

Stephen Gleeson came off the bench to make his first appearance of the campaign following a knee injury while Craig Bryson was an unused substitute.

McInnes hopes both can enjoy a full week’s training to put them in contention for Sunday’s visit of Celtic.

He said: “We resisted the chance to put Bryson on. Gleeson has been through a tough time so to get on was recognition of the work he has done. We’re probably rushing him back due to the situation we’re in.

Gleeson continued his comeback by playing an hour for the Aberdeen reserves in their Reserve Cup victory against St Johnstone yesterday.

Bruce Anderson scored a hat-trick as the Dons won 3-0 at Balmoral Stadium.

Patience: Derek McInnes