Arbroath 6 - 1 The Aberdeen

Aberdeen travelled to Arbroath and engaged the "Maroons" on Gayfield in a Northern League fixture, before fully 2000 spectators. The teams were: Arbroath - McWattie; Carrie, Penny; Anderson, McGlashan, Davidson; Leuchars, Middleton, Sword, Milne, Ford. Aberdeen - Ritchie; McConnachie, Joe Davidson; Henderson, Clark, Thomson; Kennedy, McIntosh, Mackie, Gray, Shiach. Referee, Mr J. Black, Forfar. Play at the commencement was pretty equal, but Arbroath were successful in opening the scoring through Leuchars, Aberdeen, however, equalised through Mackie shortly afterwards, and ends were changed with the scores equal. In the second period, Arbroath fairly had the best of matters, and before time was called had added five goals. Result: Arbroath 6, Aberdeen 1.

Source: Aberdeen Journal, 25th October 1897

After Orion's severe defeat last week the visit of Aberdeen was looked forward to with much interest. McConnachie occupied John Davidson's place at right back, otherwise the team was as advertised. During the first half Aberdeen had most of the play, but only managed to score once through Mackie. Previous to this Leuchars sent in a shot which was stopped on the line but the referee awarded a goal. The first half ended 1-1. Arbroath opened the second half in great style, and kept Ritchie continually on the move for some time. Aberdeen pressed strongly but had to retire pointless. Right on to the finish play was of the hardest description. Arbroath were awarded other five goals before call of time. The score nothing like indicates the run of play but the Whites again displayed weak shooting powers.

Short Kicks.

Black, Forfar, who refereed at Arbroath on Saturday is securing anything but blessings from the Whites.
Three of the goals awarded, they assert, should never have been given. Arbroath were undoubtedly the superior team but the true result should be about 3-1.
Some of them are going the length of saying they will not engage in another fixture at which Black is referee.
McConnachie was in great form for the " Whites." John Davidson was never missed.
All over the Aberdeen gave a good display, but failed at the goal mouth.
" The sorrows of a poor referee " a pathetic tale from Black and White will shortly appear.

Source: Bon-Accord, 28th October 1897