McInnes rues costly defensive lapses

DEREK McINNES was left to rue some slack defending after Kilmarnock fell to a heavy defeat on his return to Aberdeen.

McInnes was back at Pittodrie 18 months after parting company with the club where he had spent eight successful years in charge.

But it was not the return he had in mind as Killie made life far too easy for the Dons at times, particularly during the first half.

They conceded twice in the space of two minutes against an Aberdeen side who looked impressive throughout.

But McInnes, who signed a new long-term deal at Killie on Friday, admitted that some of the goals his players gave away were far too cheap. ‘We are disappointed with the first goal as we were too stretched and they took advantage,’ he said.

‘I’m more disappointed with the second as our heads were still scrambled after the first.

‘That wasn’t good enough. When you lose a goal in quick succession it drains the life out of you.

‘It was a soft penalty but it was still untidy and scruffy from us and we need to deal with that better.

‘We get one back and then Oli Shaw missed a good chance.

‘The third goal was another awful one to lose. We have gifted them goals.

‘It was a tough one and we have to be better than that. I think we will be better than that.’

McInnes was afforded a good reception by the home fans prior to kick-off, something which he appreciated.

He added: ‘It felt nice to come back. I was really looking forward to coming here.

‘There were so many familiar faces when I walked through the door.

‘Hopefully the next time I come back we can get a better result.

‘I need to thank the Aberdeen fans as they did give me a nice welcome.’