Hibernian 3 - 0 Aberdeen

By NORMAN MACDONALD

HOPES that left back Billy Smith will provide the solution to the Dons’ centre-half problem were increased at Easter Road on Saturday.
In spite the 3-0 defeat, the Aberdeen defence took more credit from the game than the forwards. The attack was a failure. It was jerky and lacking in unity.
Smith put up a really good show as pivot. He may take a week or two to establish himself solidly in his new position, but judged on his display against Reilly is the most effective centre-half Aberdeen have fielded since the departure of Kenny Thomson to Stoke City.

Close Shadow

Reilly is one of the most difficult leaders to hold in check in Scottish football. Smith shadowed him so closely that the Hibs sharpshooter, time and again, moved out to the wings in an effort to escape his vigilance.
It was only in the last seven minutes that Hibs scored two of their three goals. I doubt if the Easter Road rear division, faced with the same testing time Smith and his co-defenders, would have stood up so effectively.
Mitchell and Shaw defended dourly. Ormond was given little scope by the right back, and although Gordon Smith was more dangerous, mainly because of his wanderlust, Shaw challenged him strongly.

Better Wing Half

Allister is gradually settling down in Scottish football. He was always sound in his distribution, but in recent weeks there has been an improvement in his tackling. He was a better wing half than Harris at Easter Road.
Martin had an excellent game in goal, and along with Smith took the chief honours in the Aberdeen team.
The Dons’ attack never reallv impressed as a combined striking force. The forwards were enthusiastic enough, but enthusiasm is poor substitute for lack of ability.
Buckley was the most adventurous of the five, and he was more or less left to wage a one-man war. Hather occasionally moved into the picture, but the three others did little of note.
McNeill had a particularly lean time on the right flank. I doubt if he will develop into a successful winger, and it remains to be seen whether or not Aberdeen F.C. continue with the experiment.

Badly Missed

Hamilton and Hay were badly missed in the Hibs’ game. It is too early yet to say if they will be fit for Thursday's "Derby" game against Dundee at Pittodrie.
Hay, who sustained a knock on the foot against Partick Thistle is a more likely starter than Hamilton at the moment. The inside right’s ankle injury is yielding to treatment, but this type of injury will require a thorough test with a ball before a decision can be made as to his fitness.

Source: Evening Express, 29th December 1952