IT took Aberdeen a long time to gain the mastery over Rangers at Pittodrie, where the Dons won by 4-1.
For the first half-hour the Dons were a moderate team, and it was only after Rangers opened the scoring that the homesters took the bit between their teeth and went on to record substantial and well-deserved victory.
The Aberdeen defence was always dependable, but in the early stages the attack did not function at all satisfactorily. The old fault of playing too closely was evident, and the passing of the forwards was often mistimed and badly directed.
The improvement set in when Pattillo and Waldron changed positions, and, after Green equalised, Rangers were a beaten team. Pattiilo put thrust and drive into the attack. Green and he adopted more open tactics with beneficial results, and in the end Rangers were fortunate to get off so lightly.
Johnstone was reliable in goal. Cooper was the better back. Dyer plaved better in the second half. In a good half-back line, Dunlop was outstanding. Russell was, as usual, clever on the ball, while there was a big improvement in the play of Taylor. Not only was he strong in defence, but his constructive work was all that could be desired.
So far as the attack is concerned, full marks must go to Pattillo for an all-round clever display. He is a valuable player both at centre an in an inside berth. He took both his goals well, and also made the opening for Green's first counter. Pattillo has scored six goals in the last three games.
Green, who got the Dons' fourth goal, was a grafter. He appears to be more at home at inside left. Waldron worked quietly but effectively. Miller gave satisfaction on the right, but Munro did not impress on the ieft.
The player who stood out in the Rangers' team was Woodburn. A great centre-half this. Craven was also a good defender. Forwatd, Venters tried hard, but was poorly supported. The junior at centre for the visitors is a player of promise.
The League is stil a very open affair. Dundee dropped a point at home, and Raith Rovers are equal at the top, with the Dons two points behind.
Souce: Press & Journal, 6th November 1944