The Aberdeen 1 - 1 Orion

A large crowd witnessed the return Northern League game at Pittodrie in dull weather. The teams were:- Aberdeen: Bisset; Walker, Ross; Sangster, Thomson, Murphy; J. Mackie, C. Mackie, Macdonald, Woodlock, Shiach. Orion: Ritchie; Willocks, Low; Fraser, Esplin, Buchanan; Prophet, Burnett, Laurie, Henderson, Hogg. Mr. J. Kelly, Glasgow, was referee.

Aberdeen kicked off, and at once visited Orion's goal, but Low cleared. Aberdeen pressed for some time, then Bisset was called upon. The goal ran a narrow escape, Laurie's parting shot grazing one of the uprights. Aberdeen returned, and Ritchie fisted out a dangerous shot. Midfield play ensued. Each goal was visited, but the shooting was inferior. Near the close Shiach sent in a splendid shot from the touchline, which Ritchie saved splendidly. Ritchie lying prone on the ground averted a close range shot from Macdonald. Half-time arrived without scoring.

Orion had the major portion of the play on resuming. Aberdeen invaded, and Woodlock almost scored, a clever shot being caught under the bar by Ritchie. Sangster forced a corner, which was headed out into the open. Midfield play followed. Hogg and Henderson initiated some fine runs and pretty play, and Shiach and Woodlock on the home side were also prominent. After some close play, Burnett shot through when Bisset was out of his goal. Aberdeen then retaliated, and swarmed round Ritchie. Woodlock headed the ball high, and it dropped into Ritchie's hands. The keeper was slow, and Woodlock rushed him. Ritchie dropped the ball, and Shiach rushing in banged the sphere home and equalised the scores. Woodlock was exceedingly dangerous. Orion pressed hard to the close, but could not score.

About the middle of the first half Laurie and Ross collided. The former hurt his head, and after attention in the pavilion was able to resume, but Ross had several of his teeth knocked out, and did not return to the field.

Source: Aberdeen Journal, 23rd March 1903