Dunfermline Athletic 1 - 2 Aberdeen

IF the score had been reversed at Dunfermline, where the Dons won by the odd goal in three in the first of the home-and-home games in the North Eastern League Cup, the Pittodrie team would have had no cause for complaint. The Athletic had themselves to blame for the defeat. They had their chances, but did not take them.

The Dons got a terrific buffeting, but thanks to a gallant defence and some luck, they finished a goal to the good. Cooper scored the first of the Dons' goals from a penalty, and there was an element luck about Anicell's winner five minutes from time. Staley got the homesters' only goal.

Johnstone did well in the Aberdeen goal, and had one particularly good save in the first half. He was well protected by Cooper and Beattie. The latter has never played better in any his games for the Dons. He was in international form.
Dunlop, Gavin and Taylor in the middle division were at the top their form. Matt Armstrong had no superior in attack, and Ancell had a good game on the right. Versatile Dyer, playing centre, filled the bill well. He was ever on top of the home defence.
In a robust and hard-hitting home defence, Wallace, Harley, Hart and Walker were best, while honours forward went to McAloon and Staley.
There is a Prospect of a real thrilling game between the teams at Pittodrie on Saturday.

Source: Press & Journal, 5th April 1943