East Fife 1 - 1 Aberdeen

There have been many thrilling encounters between East Fife and Aberdeen in the past, but Saturday's meeting at Methil in the first of the home-and-home semi-final ties in the North Eastern Cup competition must rank as one of the best and most keenly contested. The result, a draw of one goal each, was a true reflex of the run of play. East Fife were on top in the first period, but after the interval the Dons, even with Drury limping on the right wing with an injured foot, were definitely superior. In fact, in the last fifteen minutes the home defence had their work cut out to keep the Dons at bay.

THE GOALS

The Fifers scored the only goal of the first half through Newall, who netted after Johnstone, the Aberdeen keeper, dropped the ball. Darby, however, equalised with a great goal immediately after the resumption. The homesters lost their opportunity when they failed with a penalty, Johnstone tipping the ball over. Every Aberdeen player played his part. Johnstone made one serious blunder, but he had some good clearances. Graham and Dyer were reliable at back. Gavin, the pivot, was the outstanding player afield. He was ably supported by Dunlop and Taylor. The forwards were not a happy lot in the first half, but they improved greatly in the second period. Drury, prior to his injury did some fine leading out work. Young Darby showed promise, while Stan Williams was ever in the thick of the fray. Pattillo was well held by Sneddon, and it was only in the closing stages that Dryden struck form. Best for East Fife were Niven, Millar, Sneddon, Cross, Wilkie, and Haldane.

Source: Press & Journal, 27th April 1942