Dundee 3 - 1 Aberdeen

LACK of forward power was the chief factor in Aberdeen's defeat at the hands of Dundee at Dens Park on Saturday. The attack never got going, and rarely looked like scoring.

he Dark Blues' attack was a brighter and breezier affair. They played with more cohesion, and had their finishing been of the same standard as their outfield play, they would have led by more than a single goal at the interval.
Johnstone in goal was the Dons' star defender during the opening period. His cutting out of crosses and general play were first rate. Anderson was the better back, but neither he nor Graham was particularly comfortable.
Waddell was a cool centre-half, although he found Coats an elusive opponent. Williams was the sole Aberdeen forward who looked as if might do any damage.

COOK OUTSTANDING

Rennie was a good back for Dundee, and Morgan at centre-half played soundly, giving Beattie little scope. Cook, of Bolton Wanderers was the outstanding man in attack and the best player afield. The little winger was tricky and dangerous. Coats was a lively leader.
It was just on the interval that Dundee took the lead. There was an element of luck about the goal although it was deserved on play. Coats got his head to a cross from Easson, the ball struck the inside of the post, and when it rebounded it struck Johnstone's arm and entered the net. The second half was only eleven minutes old when the home team got a second goal. Cook beat Graham and slipped the ball to Coats. Anderson attempted to clear, but only succeeded in deflecting the ball over Johnstone's head into the net.

FERGUSON'S GOAL

Ten minutes from the end the Dons reduced the leeway.
Smith broke away on the right, beat Rennie and gave to Ferguson. The inside-left beat Lynch with a powerful drive.
Adam made the issue secure for Dundee. He fastened on to a pass from Easson and, although harassed by Waddell, managed to deliver his shot and beat Johnstone.

Source: Press & Journal, 1st January 1940