In a week where Scottish football's fortunes plummeted to alarming depths, Aberdeen provided a much-needed shot of adrenaline with a spectacular second-half revival to defeat Ross County 3-1 at a rain-lashed Pittodrie.
The atmosphere was tense following a dismal period for Scotland's clubs in European competitions, with the Dons themselves suffering a humiliating 5-1 aggregate defeat to BK Häcken. The pressure was palpable on manager Barry Robson, with his side needing to respond emphatically.
A First Half of Frustration
The opening 45 minutes did little to lift the gloom. Ross County's Simon Murray capitalised on a defensive lapse, coolly slotting past Kelle Roos to stun the home crowd and compound the sense of crisis. Aberdeen's play was fragmented, lacking the creativity and cutting edge needed to break down a resolute County defence.
The Roaring Fightback
Whatever was said in the home dressing room at half-time worked wonders. The Dons emerged with renewed vigour and purpose. The talismanic Bojan Miovski ignited the comeback, demonstrating a poacher's instinct to pounce on a loose ball and rifle home the equaliser, sending a wave of relief through the stands.
The momentum had decisively shifted. The mercurial Duk then put the hosts ahead, showcasing his immense talent with a composed finish that sent the Pittodrie faithful into raptures. The comeback was complete when substitute Dante Polvara rose magnificently to head home a third, sealing a victory that felt about more than just three points.
A Result That Means More
This was more than a simple league win; it was a statement of resilience. In the context of a painful week for the Scottish game, Aberdeen's fightback served as a powerful reminder that the spirit within the sport is very much "alive and kicking". The result lifts Aberdeen up the table and provides crucial breathing space for Barry Robson, whose tactical changes at the break proved masterful.
The full-time whistle brought not just cheers for a win, but applause for a performance that restored pride and offered a beacon of hope after days of unrelenting negativity in Scottish football.
