Dunfermline Athletic 3 - 1 Aberdeen

WITH six matches to play, Aberdeen are five points behind Raith Rovers, the leaders of the North-Eastern League. The Dons put up a poor show at Dunfermline, where they were deservedly beaten by 3-1. There was a lack of stability in the Dons' ranks. The respective divisions of the team did not work in harmony. The entire left flank was weak.

Chief blame for the defeat, however, lies with the attack, which was ragged and unbalanced from the start. Pattillo got no support. His inside men, Cox and Armstrong, were poor, although Cox always tried to hold the ball on a difficult ground. McSpadyen got little of the ball in the second period, but Walker, the opposing left back, was generally his master. Dryden on the left did not impress.
Outstanding player on the field was Collier, at right-half for the Dons. He shone in all phases of the game. His control and passing were exceptionally good. His goal was a magnificent effort. Dunlop did his best at centre-half, but Taylor at left-half has often done better. Cooper was the better back, Ancell being none too reliable. Johnstone was blameless for the defeat.
Dunfermline's three young recruits, Kelly, Baxter and Brown, were very effective. They were all signed direct from the Juvenile ranks.
Best forward afield was Logie, the Arsenal player. He was the schemer in the home attack. Harrower, who had the hat-trick, also impressed in his outfield work.

Source: Press & Journal, 4th October 1943