Orion 2 - 0 The Aberdeen

On account of the good position occupied by both teams in the Northern League competition, unusual interest was evinced in the meeting of the Aberdeen and Orion at Cattofield. On the number of games played both teams stood equal, and were a point better on the average than Dundee Wanderers, who have played two matches more. The result of the match therefore meant the same for both teams; and more than half an hour before the kick-off a goodly crowd was awaiting the opening of the gates. Special precautions had been taken to neutralise the effects of the recent rains, and a plentiful supply of sand had the effect of making the ground firmer than might have been expected. The weather conditions, though the sky wan dull and threatening and the atmosphere rather enervating, were favourable enough as far as rain was concerned. Orion played the same team as performed such signal service for them at Montrose, and the appearance of Kane, the new forward, was awaited with interest. Aberdeen were also at full strength, Mackay again appearing in his usual place. The teams lined up as follows: Aberdeen: Ritchie; John Davidson, Joe Davidson; Mackie, Henderson, Thomson; Livingstone, Mackay, Fullarton, Gray, Shiach. Orion: Watson; Livingstone, Ross; Carrie, Low, Wilson; McPherson, Grant, Webster, Kane, Hogg. Referee: Mr McLeod, Dumbarton.

In the first half of the match neither team scored, although some excellent play was witnessed. Orion were successful in scoring in the second half, the ball having been netted by McPherson. About three minutes from the close Webster registered another point for the Orion, and the game ended: Orion, 2; Aberdeen, 0.

Source: Aberdeen Journal, 13th February 1899

Saturday's game between Orion and Aberdeen practically decided which of the two would have most chance in winning the championship. Both sides were at full strength. Kane partnered Hogg, Webster going centre; while for Aberdeen Joe Davidson again turned out at back.
At the commencement, play was even, but this did not continue long. Orion soon got within shooting distance of Ritchie and gave him considerable trouble. Three times was the ball sent in with terrific force, and how he managed to save them was a mystery. His brilliant saving was cheered loudly. The Davidsons at back, for the Whites, were defending well. Joe at times was decidedly more forcible than polite. McKay on one occasion had a splendid run of the field, finishing with a shot which made the cross-bar shiver. It was a lovely try. The Orion had by far the biggest half of the play in the opening period, but somehow or other could not score.

When the game was restarted Aberdeen's supporters smiled a smile, and they had reason for it. With no goals against them and the hill in their favour, the two points looked within easy reach. Orion, however, had to be reckoned with, and the Stripes rose splendidly to the occasion. The Whites soon found out if a win was to be got it would require some playing for. Watson, who got severely injured in the first half, pluckily stayed on the field, but it was seen he moved with difficulty and suffered great pain. A series of corners to the Aberdeen looked serious for the homesters, but they were got away. Joe Davidson tackles Webster in robust style, and gets cautioned by the referee. Webster has to be attended to by the trainer. A fine run by Hogg and a good pass to McPherson enables the latter to score a lovely goal from a very difficult position. The scene which follows baffles description. Hats, caps, and sticks are waved in the air, while the howl that went up must have been heard at Stonehaven. Aberdeen dash down and the ball is trundled into the net, but the point is disallowed owing to the ball being fisted through. From a corner Grant heads through number two, and retire victors by 2-0. Orion now occupy the top place in the League table, and with only three matches to play it is long odds on their again bringing the flag to Aberdeen. The Stripes' remaining fixtures for the championship are, Vics at Torry, Arbroath away, and Wanderers at Cattofield.

The game may be summed up as - First half, Orion three-fourths; Aberdeen, one-fourth. Second half about half about half each.
On the Orion side Watson showed great pluck in staying on after being so severely injured. The backs were shaky when hard pressed. The halves played splendidly, Donald Currie being best. Forward, McPherson and Smart were the best wing. Kane was much on a par with the others, but is slightly deficient in speed. Hogg put in his usual tricky play. Webster in centre is no great improvement on Barron.
Ritchie was the best man Aberdeen had. Joe Davidson was decidedly forcible, but we would not accuse him of intentionally trying to injure. One individual who had been howling at him from the start, said it was Joe who injured Watson. It was a wonderful assertion. Of the halves, Henderson gave a good exhibition. The forwards gave but a moderate display. Fullerton limped most of the game.
Orion rest on Saturday first, and considering the hard games they have played recently and have to play within the next few weeks, the players should greatly benefit by the "off day."

Source: Bon-Accord, 16th February 1899