Aberdeen sustained their eighth defeat of the season, and their second at home, when Airdrieonians beat them at Pittodrie by the only goal before 11,000 spectators. Aberdeen had more than their share of attacking, but at close quarters could not press home their advantage. On one occasion Smith burst through on the left, and the on run had terrific shot, which Shortt, the Airdrie goalkeeper, did well to deflect over the bar. Although attacking less frequently, the winners were always the more dangerous side, and their individual play and control in close movements were always ahead of the efforts of the home players. The deciding goal was scored ten minutes after the start of the second period, when Somerville, lying unmarked, got possession, and, without steadying himself, lobbed the ball into the net out of the reach of Blackwell. Aberdeen earlier had missed several good chances of scoring, but their forwards did not combine well, and could not finish when in favourable position. In the later stages the home players gave a lifeless display.
Duggins, tried at Centre forward for Aberdeen, was not a success, and the only forward who seemed capable of accomplishing really effective work was Smith, at outside left. Milne was the best of a moderate halfback line, and if sometimes not too steady the backs did well, and Blackwell acquitted himself creditably.
In a fast-moving Airdrie forward line, Reid and Doyle were outstanding, but Gallacher at centre forward played well although handicapped by injury. MacDougall was the best of the halfbacks, and never allowed Duggins any scope. Dick and McQueen at back were erratic in their kicking, but put up a splendid defence and were well Supported by Shortt in goal.
Source: Aberdeen Daily Journal 26th December 1922