The new season is almost apon us and a new season made me decide that such an event deserves a new thread.
So far we've beaten local SFL sides in pre-seasons friendlies - Peterhead 4-1 and Elgin City 5-0. The side head off to South Africa for a tour before coming back to Scotland for a couple more friendlies.
The transfer front has been quiet. So far McNaughton has left Cardiff, MacFarlane has joined Gretna, Danny Griffin can now be found at Dundee and Esson has moved down to Shrewsbury.
To replace MacFarlane and Griffin we've signed Touzani from FC Twente. I saw him against Peterhead and he didn't do much wrong and looked a more then capable replacement for two players! Derek Souter has joined to replace Esson and at the moment we have a French lad by the name of Othmane Hamama on trial. He is a left back and played in the 5-0 win over Elgin and did enough to be given an extention to his trial.
Full Version: The Aberdeen FC Thread
Your season will officially be over at 4:45 on october 21st!
seriously, heres to a better season for the new firm
seriously, heres to a better season for the new firm
Hammell also must be counted as a player who left you, for a couple of monehts now it looked that he all but signed for you.
Who's this French cove you lot have got on trial, where does he play?
Who's this French cove you lot have got on trial, where does he play?
QUOTE(Allan. @ Jul 10 2006, 08:28 PM) 
Hammell also must be counted as a player who left you, for a couple of monehts now it looked that he all but signed for you.
Who's this French cove you lot have got on trial, where does he play?
I'm just glad the Hammell thing is over. We started talks way back in January and 6 months later he buggers off to Southend.
French lad is Othmane Hamama on trial. He is a left back and played in the 5-0 win over Elgin and did enough to be given an extention to his trial.
I can see Aberdeen sneaking the top 6 again behind the Glasgow and Edinburgh clubs 
As long as they don't continue the streak against Rangers i'll be happy
As long as they don't continue the streak against Rangers i'll be happy
I'll be coming up on December 23rd to watch PLG enjoy a cold afternoon in Aberdeen, no doubt in the pishing rain
my m8 is goin to do medicine at Aberdeen uni in September and plans are afoot for the lhads to come up for a bit of a session over the weekends Celtic are playing the Dons at Pittodrie, think its 9th September and 17th February 
Gotta love how you'd fucked the quote thing there 
i think aberdeen will do OK, they will lose to the old firm, be competitive against the Edinburgh teams,will beat the bottom teams and have close games against Killie and ICT ,possibly finish 5/6th ?
Two games into the tour of South Africa and its won one and lost one. Beat Bloemfontein Celtics 2-1 and lost 2-0 to Jomo Cosmos. The defeat wasn't that bad when you look at the starting 11, only four of the team that started I'd say would have a good chance of starting a normal match.
As for the season ahead. I see no reason why we can't go one better next season and finish fourth at least. We need a couple of signings and pray for any injury problems to be mild and sporadic. Everyone seems to think Hibs are so special but we gave them a footballing lesson last time we met.
As for the season ahead. I see no reason why we can't go one better next season and finish fourth at least. We need a couple of signings and pray for any injury problems to be mild and sporadic. Everyone seems to think Hibs are so special but we gave them a footballing lesson last time we met.
QUOTE
Dons players and backroom staff to a private audience at his home in Johannesburg.
Dons boss Jimmy Calderwood, who cancelled today's training session as soon as Mr Mandela's advisors confirmed the meeting, said: "Everyone is very excited.
"It's not every day you get the chance to meet someone as special as Mr Mandela."
Mandela - who will be 88 tomorrow - wanted to personally thank the Aberdeen party for making the 3,000-mile trip to his country to help promote South Africa hosting the World Cup finals in 2010.
He planned to meet the Dons and Rangers players when they played at Johannesburg's Wanderers Stadium yesterday, but was forced to cancel because he was delayed at meetings in Zimbabwe.
Mandela gave the Rangers party, who flew home to Scotland today, some consolation by taking a conference telephone call with their players and manager Paul Le Guen before they departed from Johannesburg Airport.
But he went one better for the Dons by agreeing to reshuffle his schedule to spend part of this morning with them.
The Aberdeen squad were then planning to visit Soweto, the area where Mandela's childhood home is based.
The players and backroom staff had organised a collection to buy gifts for the children who stay in what is regarded as one of the most under-privileged parts of the world.
Calderwood added: "The players asked for the trip to Soweto and I'm sure it will be a very moving experience for them."
Dons boss Jimmy Calderwood, who cancelled today's training session as soon as Mr Mandela's advisors confirmed the meeting, said: "Everyone is very excited.
"It's not every day you get the chance to meet someone as special as Mr Mandela."
Mandela - who will be 88 tomorrow - wanted to personally thank the Aberdeen party for making the 3,000-mile trip to his country to help promote South Africa hosting the World Cup finals in 2010.
He planned to meet the Dons and Rangers players when they played at Johannesburg's Wanderers Stadium yesterday, but was forced to cancel because he was delayed at meetings in Zimbabwe.
Mandela gave the Rangers party, who flew home to Scotland today, some consolation by taking a conference telephone call with their players and manager Paul Le Guen before they departed from Johannesburg Airport.
But he went one better for the Dons by agreeing to reshuffle his schedule to spend part of this morning with them.
The Aberdeen squad were then planning to visit Soweto, the area where Mandela's childhood home is based.
The players and backroom staff had organised a collection to buy gifts for the children who stay in what is regarded as one of the most under-privileged parts of the world.
Calderwood added: "The players asked for the trip to Soweto and I'm sure it will be a very moving experience for them."
I bet thats one thing the players will never forget.
QUOTE(StandFree @ Jul 17 2006, 06:22 PM)
I bet thats one thing the players will never forget.
One man I would love to meet
One of the greatest men in history - complete legend
The South African Rugby team still wearing 46664 on their sleeves in tribute to him goes to show how much he means to SA, and indeed the world....
It's akin with meeting the Pope, Queen Elizabeth II and the President of the United States
It's akin with meeting the Pope, Queen Elizabeth II and the President of the United States
The meeting with Mandela was cancelled for some reason today but the club are still hopefull another chance will arise before they leave SA next week. The players visted an orphanage today though and handed out toys they have collected. With got another game against Jomo Cosmos to come, as well as one against Wits FC.
Othmane Hamama will not be given a deal. From what I heard from fans who were at Elgin he didn't look like he was good enough, shit was a word a few used to describe him. Our hunt for a decent left-back continues. I'm suprised we didn't sign him since we normally sign shit left-backs anyway!
Othmane Hamama will not be given a deal. From what I heard from fans who were at Elgin he didn't look like he was good enough, shit was a word a few used to describe him. Our hunt for a decent left-back continues. I'm suprised we didn't sign him since we normally sign shit left-backs anyway!
QUOTE
Aberdeen and Rangers have expressed an interest in Zambia international Chris Katongo after he impressed against the Scottish Premier League clubs.
The Jomo Cosmos midfielder played in pre-season friendlies during pre-season preparations in South Africa.
And Cosmos chairman Jomo Somo said: "Chris has played exceptionally well and Rangers and Aberdeen have shown interest in him.
"We won't stand in his way. I feel he has to move and he deserves it."
Cosmos lost 2-0 to Rangers but reversed the scoreline in defeating the Dons.
The Jomo Cosmos midfielder played in pre-season friendlies during pre-season preparations in South Africa.
And Cosmos chairman Jomo Somo said: "Chris has played exceptionally well and Rangers and Aberdeen have shown interest in him.
"We won't stand in his way. I feel he has to move and he deserves it."
Cosmos lost 2-0 to Rangers but reversed the scoreline in defeating the Dons.
I was thinking to myself if we'd end up showing an interest in any of the players we'd come up against in the SA tour. Obviously if Rangers show an interest then we may struggle to sign him.
The trip to the orphanage in Soweto had a very powerful effect on the players .
Jamie Smith wrote....
Visiting the Othandweni Children's Home was a life changing experience for me.
It was the biggest shock to the system I've ever had.
Every city in the world has bad areas, but I've never experienced the likes of what I saw here in Johannesburg.
What made it worse is this area is just a 30-minute bus ride from the five-star hotel that has offered us every luxury since our arrival last week.
How can South Africa be talking of spending millions to host the 2010 World Cup finals when stopping their own children from suffering should be the priority?
I have three children of my own and the thought that youngsters like them are living as they are in Soweto reduced me to tears.
I knew it wasn't going to be a nice experience, but I had to go.
If everyone turned their back on the conditions for children like those at the home it will never improve.
I've always thought of myself as a charitable person. Standing orders come off my wages for various good causes and have done so for the last five years or so. But it's not until you experience things first hand you realise what I, and millions of others, do is just a drop in the ocean.
It was great to see the children smile. It pleased all of us to think we had contributed to giving them some respite, no matter how brief. But, after speaking to the staff at the orphanage, I know there are horror stories behind most of those smiles.
Anyone who visits South Africa must make a point of organising tours similar to ours. They must help to make more people aware of the terrible conditions in which children - particularly those outwith the orphanages - are living.
Meanwhile, what I plan to do is become the driving force behind efforts to essentially get everyone at Aberdeen FC to 'adopt' the orphanage we visited.
I refuse to allow our contribution to be simply a one-hour wonder, handing out a few gifts.
Along with our captain Russell Anderson, I will make sure things are followed through to give the Dons players of today - and those of the future - the chance to make a positive contribution.
It still won't be much when you look at the sheer scale of what is happening in Soweto.
But if it helps give even one of the children there a happier life it will have been worthwhile.
Jamie Smith wrote....
QUOTE
Visiting the Othandweni Children's Home was a life changing experience for me.
It was the biggest shock to the system I've ever had.
Every city in the world has bad areas, but I've never experienced the likes of what I saw here in Johannesburg.
What made it worse is this area is just a 30-minute bus ride from the five-star hotel that has offered us every luxury since our arrival last week.
How can South Africa be talking of spending millions to host the 2010 World Cup finals when stopping their own children from suffering should be the priority?
I have three children of my own and the thought that youngsters like them are living as they are in Soweto reduced me to tears.
I knew it wasn't going to be a nice experience, but I had to go.
If everyone turned their back on the conditions for children like those at the home it will never improve.
I've always thought of myself as a charitable person. Standing orders come off my wages for various good causes and have done so for the last five years or so. But it's not until you experience things first hand you realise what I, and millions of others, do is just a drop in the ocean.
It was great to see the children smile. It pleased all of us to think we had contributed to giving them some respite, no matter how brief. But, after speaking to the staff at the orphanage, I know there are horror stories behind most of those smiles.
Anyone who visits South Africa must make a point of organising tours similar to ours. They must help to make more people aware of the terrible conditions in which children - particularly those outwith the orphanages - are living.
Meanwhile, what I plan to do is become the driving force behind efforts to essentially get everyone at Aberdeen FC to 'adopt' the orphanage we visited.
I refuse to allow our contribution to be simply a one-hour wonder, handing out a few gifts.
Along with our captain Russell Anderson, I will make sure things are followed through to give the Dons players of today - and those of the future - the chance to make a positive contribution.
It still won't be much when you look at the sheer scale of what is happening in Soweto.
But if it helps give even one of the children there a happier life it will have been worthwhile.
QUOTE
The tears they shed suggested the Aberdeen players who visited Othandweni Children's Home in Soweto will never forget the experience.
They made the 30-minute trip from the opulence of the five-star Emperors Palace Hotel that has been their home here in Johannesburg to Soweto, the infamous area to the south west of the city.
The trip included tourist friendly places like the Regina Mundi Church and Nelson Mandela's old house.
But it is the 45 minutes spent in the children's home, which cares for 90 youngsters aged from three months to 18 years, that will be remembered the most.
"It was humbling," said team captain Russell Anderson.
"We saw people at the side of the road begging and some rundown areas while going by bus to training, but this was totally different.
"At least the children in the home are cared for very well. But that left me thinking about how horrible it must be for the poor souls who are not so fortunate."
Soweto has a population of 4.5 million crammed into a sprawling suburb just outside Johannesburg. The Dons were spared the experience of going to any of the shanty towns, where families cram into primitive shelters, share just one water tap to a street and rarely have enough food.
The idea of the Aberdeen party paying a visit was suggested by Jomo Sono, coach of the Jomo Cosmos, one of the clubs the Dons are playing during their South African tour. But it was club masseur Gillian Mitchell who made it actually happen.
Russell said: "Gillian is the one who embraced the idea and organised getting the gifts for the children. We are all glad she did."
Everyone in the group contributed to the collection to buy goody bags full of things like colouring books, pens and toys.
On arrival at the home, it was discovered the 60 or so older children, many of whom have contracted AIDS from their parents, were at school.
The Aberdeen party received a tour of their living quarters, before entering a room containing rows of cots.
Some were occupied, other children were enjoying cuddles from staff on the floor nearby.
The Aberdeen party, understandably, were at a loss about what to do.
A women in her mid 20s called Lebo broke the ice.
"The children love to be held, do not be afraid," she said.
Russell led the way and gently lifted a small boy in his arms.
The rest soon followed. Richie Byrne, Jamie Smith, Kyle Macaulay, and Michael Hart also gave cuddles, which led to the silence being broken by giggles from the children.
Zander Diamond leaned into one of the cots and had its small occupant in fits of laughter by tickling his feet.
"Most of the children never knew what kindness was until they came here," said Lebo.
"Most have either been abandoned or sent here by relatives who wanted to save them from being sexually abused by their parents."
Lebo didn't have a hint of emotion in her voice as she went into horrific detail about some of the awful things that had happened to the children.
"It is important to let people know," she said,
"If not, the horror will go on."
When I related Lebo's information to Russell, he said: "As a father, I can't understand how people can do that to their own children.
"A small boy I held was suffering badly from the flu. I heard his little chest rattling with every breath.
"When I was told later they struggle to find enough money to buy medicines my eyes filled with tears."
Russell agreed to do something to help on that front. The home is organising fundraising schemes in the home countries of people who have paid visits.
Russell said: "As soon as I was told that I offered to get myself and the club involved.
"It didn't look as if the bags of gifts we bought would make much difference.
"But when you actually see what is happening you want to do a lot more."
The final word went to Lebo.
"When the other children return from school they will think Christmas has come early thanks to the people from Aberdeen," she said.
"I cannot thank them enough for their kindness."
They made the 30-minute trip from the opulence of the five-star Emperors Palace Hotel that has been their home here in Johannesburg to Soweto, the infamous area to the south west of the city.
The trip included tourist friendly places like the Regina Mundi Church and Nelson Mandela's old house.
But it is the 45 minutes spent in the children's home, which cares for 90 youngsters aged from three months to 18 years, that will be remembered the most.
"It was humbling," said team captain Russell Anderson.
"We saw people at the side of the road begging and some rundown areas while going by bus to training, but this was totally different.
"At least the children in the home are cared for very well. But that left me thinking about how horrible it must be for the poor souls who are not so fortunate."
Soweto has a population of 4.5 million crammed into a sprawling suburb just outside Johannesburg. The Dons were spared the experience of going to any of the shanty towns, where families cram into primitive shelters, share just one water tap to a street and rarely have enough food.
The idea of the Aberdeen party paying a visit was suggested by Jomo Sono, coach of the Jomo Cosmos, one of the clubs the Dons are playing during their South African tour. But it was club masseur Gillian Mitchell who made it actually happen.
Russell said: "Gillian is the one who embraced the idea and organised getting the gifts for the children. We are all glad she did."
Everyone in the group contributed to the collection to buy goody bags full of things like colouring books, pens and toys.
On arrival at the home, it was discovered the 60 or so older children, many of whom have contracted AIDS from their parents, were at school.
The Aberdeen party received a tour of their living quarters, before entering a room containing rows of cots.
Some were occupied, other children were enjoying cuddles from staff on the floor nearby.
The Aberdeen party, understandably, were at a loss about what to do.
A women in her mid 20s called Lebo broke the ice.
"The children love to be held, do not be afraid," she said.
Russell led the way and gently lifted a small boy in his arms.
The rest soon followed. Richie Byrne, Jamie Smith, Kyle Macaulay, and Michael Hart also gave cuddles, which led to the silence being broken by giggles from the children.
Zander Diamond leaned into one of the cots and had its small occupant in fits of laughter by tickling his feet.
"Most of the children never knew what kindness was until they came here," said Lebo.
"Most have either been abandoned or sent here by relatives who wanted to save them from being sexually abused by their parents."
Lebo didn't have a hint of emotion in her voice as she went into horrific detail about some of the awful things that had happened to the children.
"It is important to let people know," she said,
"If not, the horror will go on."
When I related Lebo's information to Russell, he said: "As a father, I can't understand how people can do that to their own children.
"A small boy I held was suffering badly from the flu. I heard his little chest rattling with every breath.
"When I was told later they struggle to find enough money to buy medicines my eyes filled with tears."
Russell agreed to do something to help on that front. The home is organising fundraising schemes in the home countries of people who have paid visits.
Russell said: "As soon as I was told that I offered to get myself and the club involved.
"It didn't look as if the bags of gifts we bought would make much difference.
"But when you actually see what is happening you want to do a lot more."
The final word went to Lebo.
"When the other children return from school they will think Christmas has come early thanks to the people from Aberdeen," she said.
"I cannot thank them enough for their kindness."
I'm getting good vibrations from pre-season so far. Seems to going a bit better then the tour of Holland last year where everyone was getting injured. Some more positive news from our tour...
I like what the Jomo manager has to say
QUOTE
JOMO'S AFRICAN STARS POISED TO SHINE WITH DONS
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10:50 - 20 July 2006
The best footballers will soon be coming out of Africa - and directly to Aberdeen, if the Dons take up an amazing deal on offer to them.
The prospect of not paying a transfer fee for 20 times capped Zambian striker Chris Katongo will delight the cash-strapped Dons. And the opportunity to forge links with Jomo Cosmos that could see a flood of top black African players pouring into Pittodrie almost looks too good to be true.
But Jomo Sono, the self-styled king of African football, says he will make it happen when he meets Dons boss Jimmy Calderwood and football director Willie Miller here in Johannesburg tomorrow.
Katongo, who is also being tracked by Rangers, will be offered up as a sweetener to seal a deal that could prove a winner for both clubs.
"I'm not interested in making money off Aberdeen," said Jomo, who will also urge the Dons to sign Katongo's younger brother Felix, a left winger.
"I want to open up a partnership that would benefit both clubs.
"We would be happy to send all our best players, who qualify for European passports or work permits, to them in Scotland.
"Aberdeen are in a better position to sell them on to other clubs in Europe and we would both share in any profits.
"That includes Katongo, even though he is our star forward and was our top scorer last season.
"I could make money now by selling him to Rangers or another club in Europe. But I would rather do what is best for him and Cosmos in the long term.
"If that means we make nothing immediately from his move to Aberdeen and have to wait to benefit from a sell on clause then I will do that."
Jomo promised the Dons and their fans they would be on a winner if they made Katongo, 23, their first Zambian signing.
"Katongo would be a revelation in Scotland," he said. "It would delight me to see him get the praise he deserves.
"It's the same with his brother Felix. He is injured at the moment but is an unbelievably talented winger.
"Aberdeen would benefit from having the option of many more players from Africa.
"Clubs like Arsenal and Chelsea are already plundering this continent for top talent. Rangers will soon do the same because I know their new manager Paul Le Guen has contacts here.
"Aberdeen could gain an advantage in Scotland by agreeing to link up with us.
"It would give them more chance of getting the affordable better black players before some of their rivals.
"I can see only benefits for both of us."
Katongo scored the opener when Cosmos beat Aberdeen 2-0 on Sunday but missed yesterday's rematch, which the Dons won 1-0, because he is away on international duty.
But Sono says the striker - who scored 12 goals last season - could go straight to Scotland to join Aberdeen next week if the talks with Calderwood and Miller go well.
The former South African international coach said: "Katongo follows my advice and has already told me he would rather go to Aberdeen than Rangers.
"It is not about money. It is about him getting the chance to play regularly and develop. He can make his fortune further down the line.
"He meets the criteria needed to get a work permit in Scotland, so the deal could be done very quickly.
"A few other teams, in Germany and France, are also looking at him.
"They told me they will watch Katongo when he plays for Zambia on Sunday.
"But I will make sure Aberdeen get the first option.
"I owe them that for agreeing to travel so far to support the tournament I organised to promote South Africa.
"I've also taken an instant liking to Jimmy Calderwood and now regard him as a friend.
"And friends do all they can to help each other."
More Headlines | Back to home page
Be the first reader to comment on this story
10:50 - 20 July 2006
The best footballers will soon be coming out of Africa - and directly to Aberdeen, if the Dons take up an amazing deal on offer to them.
The prospect of not paying a transfer fee for 20 times capped Zambian striker Chris Katongo will delight the cash-strapped Dons. And the opportunity to forge links with Jomo Cosmos that could see a flood of top black African players pouring into Pittodrie almost looks too good to be true.
But Jomo Sono, the self-styled king of African football, says he will make it happen when he meets Dons boss Jimmy Calderwood and football director Willie Miller here in Johannesburg tomorrow.
Katongo, who is also being tracked by Rangers, will be offered up as a sweetener to seal a deal that could prove a winner for both clubs.
"I'm not interested in making money off Aberdeen," said Jomo, who will also urge the Dons to sign Katongo's younger brother Felix, a left winger.
"I want to open up a partnership that would benefit both clubs.
"We would be happy to send all our best players, who qualify for European passports or work permits, to them in Scotland.
"Aberdeen are in a better position to sell them on to other clubs in Europe and we would both share in any profits.
"That includes Katongo, even though he is our star forward and was our top scorer last season.
"I could make money now by selling him to Rangers or another club in Europe. But I would rather do what is best for him and Cosmos in the long term.
"If that means we make nothing immediately from his move to Aberdeen and have to wait to benefit from a sell on clause then I will do that."
Jomo promised the Dons and their fans they would be on a winner if they made Katongo, 23, their first Zambian signing.
"Katongo would be a revelation in Scotland," he said. "It would delight me to see him get the praise he deserves.
"It's the same with his brother Felix. He is injured at the moment but is an unbelievably talented winger.
"Aberdeen would benefit from having the option of many more players from Africa.
"Clubs like Arsenal and Chelsea are already plundering this continent for top talent. Rangers will soon do the same because I know their new manager Paul Le Guen has contacts here.
"Aberdeen could gain an advantage in Scotland by agreeing to link up with us.
"It would give them more chance of getting the affordable better black players before some of their rivals.
"I can see only benefits for both of us."
Katongo scored the opener when Cosmos beat Aberdeen 2-0 on Sunday but missed yesterday's rematch, which the Dons won 1-0, because he is away on international duty.
But Sono says the striker - who scored 12 goals last season - could go straight to Scotland to join Aberdeen next week if the talks with Calderwood and Miller go well.
The former South African international coach said: "Katongo follows my advice and has already told me he would rather go to Aberdeen than Rangers.
"It is not about money. It is about him getting the chance to play regularly and develop. He can make his fortune further down the line.
"He meets the criteria needed to get a work permit in Scotland, so the deal could be done very quickly.
"A few other teams, in Germany and France, are also looking at him.
"They told me they will watch Katongo when he plays for Zambia on Sunday.
"But I will make sure Aberdeen get the first option.
"I owe them that for agreeing to travel so far to support the tournament I organised to promote South Africa.
"I've also taken an instant liking to Jimmy Calderwood and now regard him as a friend.
"And friends do all they can to help each other."
I like what the Jomo manager has to say
He's after something, even if it isn't money for Jomo, is he their Mr 10%
I think it would be rather interesting if Aberdeen became "Aberdeen Cosmos" simply because they were flooded with players from SA
I think it would be rather interesting if Aberdeen became "Aberdeen Cosmos" simply because they were flooded with players from SA
Mate your u15's are brilliant, they thumped us in the u16's section of the AIFF, and I watched their game against the Ghanians and in the first half they ran the show.
Has Katongo signed for you lot, was that not part of the Jomo deal?
QUOTE(CaptainCarrots @ Jul 25 2006, 01:32 PM)
Has Katongo signed for you lot, was that not part of the Jomo deal?
Not yet. We have a deal with Jomo which means thaty in theory they'll send us some youngsters but I think I read that any deal for Katongo would not be completed till sometime after the first game of the season.
Unless he decides to go to Rangers instead
QUOTE(CaptainCarrots @ Jul 26 2006, 12:56 PM)
Unless he decides to go to Rangers instead
Its ok the Jomo manager has already said he'd rather give us Kataongo for free then give him to Rangers for a fee
Looking at the team that beat Montrose 3-0 in a pre-season friendly this week I was suprised at how many names I didn't even recognize. Chris Maguire was impressive against the Gable Endies but I'm sure it'll be another season at least till he becomes a regular fixture in the squad. I guess he'll have to make do with the subs bench till then.
Is he like your new Russel Anderson? How old is he?
QUOTE(Allan. @ Jul 28 2006, 03:33 PM)
Is he like your new Russel Anderson? How old is he?
Maguire is 17 and he's going to be our new Eoin Jess hopefully.
Two draws so far from the opening two games. I thought thw Hibs result was alright as it was a far from easy opening day fixture away from home. However the draw with Caly was awful. A slow start to the game and I'm sure our opening goal was our first meaninful attempt at goal. For a few minutes after that goal we attacked and it looked like we might take control of the game. However after half-time we were awful at times and were far too negative. The introduction of Mackie did liven things up briefly however with mere minutes to go, a cross into the box which Langfield had been dealing with fairly comfortably all afternoon proved to be our downfall. Somehow Langfield managed to drop the ball and it feel to Wilson to score the easiest goal hes likely to ever have scored. It left me feeling gutted. While it would be hard to argue that Caly didn't deserve at least a point I thought we'd be able to hold on to our single goal advantage.
The new ticketing system worked perfectly, it went smoothly with no major delays. Ok, I'm lying. I got to the stadium at around quarter to 3 and there were huge queues outside the RDS. They even had to open the fire exits and used them to allow fans in. I guess problems like these are to be expected but some problems were caused by the fact that the club hadn't bothered to move the correct signs to the proper turnstyles.
The new ticketing system worked perfectly, it went smoothly with no major delays. Ok, I'm lying. I got to the stadium at around quarter to 3 and there were huge queues outside the RDS. They even had to open the fire exits and used them to allow fans in. I guess problems like these are to be expected but some problems were caused by the fact that the club hadn't bothered to move the correct signs to the proper turnstyles.
Smooth...
Is it some kind of Smartcard thing?
Is it some kind of Smartcard thing?
QUOTE(CaptainCarrots @ Aug 7 2006, 12:21 AM)
Smooth...
Is it some kind of Smartcard thing?
Yea, season ticket is credit card size and you place it up against a card reader to let you in. Normal tickets are still paper but have a bar code which you place into a slot in the card reader. I get to try that method against Everton on Tuesday.
I've got a fantasic view from my new seat. Three rows from the back of the RDS. If the game gets boring (good chance of that!) I can take in a wonderful view of Aberdeen itself!
See, what I dont get is...
Rangers have been using the smartcard for years, and Aberdeen and Celtic have both experienced major technical flaws with the system?
Shouldn't they speak to Rangers about it?
We got new ones issued this month, and all you do is wave it anywhere near the sensor and it clicks, the old ones you have to stand for a while
Rangers have been using the smartcard for years, and Aberdeen and Celtic have both experienced major technical flaws with the system?
Shouldn't they speak to Rangers about it?
We got new ones issued this month, and all you do is wave it anywhere near the sensor and it clicks, the old ones you have to stand for a while
QUOTE(CaptainCarrots @ Aug 7 2006, 12:34 AM)
See, what I dont get is...
Rangers have been using the smartcard for years, and Aberdeen and Celtic have both experienced major technical flaws with the system?
Shouldn't they speak to Rangers about it?
We got new ones issued this month, and all you do is wave it anywhere near the sensor and it clicks, the old ones you have to stand for a while
thats what we've got at Celtic Park as well, all you need to do is wave the card over the laser and it gets recognised. the problem at the killie game was that some fans thought you had to slide the card into the space in the reader, therefore causing hold-ups
The club itself seems fairly happy with the way it went.
My card worked fine but I've heard that some peoples cards didn't work and some turnstiles were shut before 2.40pm.
QUOTE
Aberdeen Football Club have said that a new ticket system which was introduced at the weekend has been a success.
The up-to-date process enables season ticket holders to scan their pass in order to gain entry through the club's turnstiles.
Paper tickets can also be fed into the machines to allow access to the ground.
Pittodrie hosted its first match of the season on Saturday, a 1-1 draw with Inverness Caley Thistle, and staff said the system was "absolutely fine".
The system had been thoroughly trialled before the game to try and ensure success.
Pittodrie spokesperson Dave Macdermid told the BBC Scotland news website on Monday: "There were a few teething problems, not with the new system but with the turnstiles being slower than they should have been.
"But feedback seems to be extremely positive.
"We asked people to come as early as possible."
The up-to-date process enables season ticket holders to scan their pass in order to gain entry through the club's turnstiles.
Paper tickets can also be fed into the machines to allow access to the ground.
Pittodrie hosted its first match of the season on Saturday, a 1-1 draw with Inverness Caley Thistle, and staff said the system was "absolutely fine".
The system had been thoroughly trialled before the game to try and ensure success.
Pittodrie spokesperson Dave Macdermid told the BBC Scotland news website on Monday: "There were a few teething problems, not with the new system but with the turnstiles being slower than they should have been.
"But feedback seems to be extremely positive.
"We asked people to come as early as possible."
My card worked fine but I've heard that some peoples cards didn't work and some turnstiles were shut before 2.40pm.
I know that you lot are disappointed to loose points to calley, but we are too. We thought we were going to win last week!
Lost 3-2 to Everton tonight despite the fact we took the lead twice. A good performance but today was the first time I've seen Souter play in goals and I hope I won't see him again for a while.
It was a decent game on the whole, I'm disappointed as we came so close to beating them but fucking hell, I've never seen an away end as dead tonights was. Everton brought up a decent amount of fans but I didn't hear a single song from them all night!
It was a decent game on the whole, I'm disappointed as we came so close to beating them but fucking hell, I've never seen an away end as dead tonights was. Everton brought up a decent amount of fans but I didn't hear a single song from them all night!
Yet more disappointment on Saturday. Same old predictable story from us as we failed to beat St Mirren. We took the lead and started to play well but as the game went on we got deeper and deeper till we were basically on our 18 yard line for much of the time. A few minutes before the equalizer I could feel it coming.
The worst thing about the game however was the incompetent linesman. He denined us a corner when the St Mirren player clearly was the last player to touch the ball before it crossed the goal line and then said Mackie was offside when he scored what could have been a killer second goal for us. It wasn't a difficult decision as Mackie was clearly behind the player marking him and also there was a second defenders a couple of yards further forward on the far side. Maybe the assistant had been given a pre-match team talk from McCurry
Also we're not going to Hampden anymore, well not yet anyway. The bloody Rolling Stones are playing Hampden this Friday so its off to the theatre of dreams that is Firhill.
My three year old cousin is a very sensible person for such a young age. She wouldn't stop asking for an Aberdeen top for her birthday as she wanted the same top as me. The other side of her family are all Jambos so I'm delighted
The worst thing about the game however was the incompetent linesman. He denined us a corner when the St Mirren player clearly was the last player to touch the ball before it crossed the goal line and then said Mackie was offside when he scored what could have been a killer second goal for us. It wasn't a difficult decision as Mackie was clearly behind the player marking him and also there was a second defenders a couple of yards further forward on the far side. Maybe the assistant had been given a pre-match team talk from McCurry
Also we're not going to Hampden anymore, well not yet anyway. The bloody Rolling Stones are playing Hampden this Friday so its off to the theatre of dreams that is Firhill.
My three year old cousin is a very sensible person for such a young age. She wouldn't stop asking for an Aberdeen top for her birthday as she wanted the same top as me. The other side of her family are all Jambos so I'm delighted
Much calmer now after the horror that was the Queen's Park result. Got a decent home win against Dunfermline on Saturday. Disappointed we didn't score at least another goal or two.
However the real big news was Crawford being dropped. A deal was being sorted out to send the striker back to Dunfermline. We'd get Shields in return. This however has fallen through as Shields couldn't agree terms with Aberdeen. I'm not that disappointed as I can't see any real reason for bring Shields to Pittodrie.
On Saturday we got our first glimpse of new striker Daal. He looked fast and hungry, chased every ball no matter how lost the cause looked. Missed a good chance or two but I'm sure his eye for goal will improve as he plays more games.
The Crawford situation raised a serious question. Why were we punting a striker for a defender when we need strikers? We have Mackie, Daal and Lovell. Mackie is inconsistent and Lovell still can't seem to shrug off his minor niggling injuries. Maguire and Bagshaw are rated as players of promise but still too young to play a major role in the first team. The answer came today when I saw the Evening Express billboard headline story - Dons Striker Target Revealed. Got the paper and almost burst into laughter when I saw who it was - Lee Miller. Can't say I'm suprised!
If your watching Scotsport tonight and see that the banners in the RDS are upside down then I have the reason for you. At first I though members of the Red Ultras might of had one drink too many the night before but it was to symbolise the disappointment at the teams performance against Queen's Park. Apparently this is a common thing to do for many European sides.
However the real big news was Crawford being dropped. A deal was being sorted out to send the striker back to Dunfermline. We'd get Shields in return. This however has fallen through as Shields couldn't agree terms with Aberdeen. I'm not that disappointed as I can't see any real reason for bring Shields to Pittodrie.
On Saturday we got our first glimpse of new striker Daal. He looked fast and hungry, chased every ball no matter how lost the cause looked. Missed a good chance or two but I'm sure his eye for goal will improve as he plays more games.
The Crawford situation raised a serious question. Why were we punting a striker for a defender when we need strikers? We have Mackie, Daal and Lovell. Mackie is inconsistent and Lovell still can't seem to shrug off his minor niggling injuries. Maguire and Bagshaw are rated as players of promise but still too young to play a major role in the first team. The answer came today when I saw the Evening Express billboard headline story - Dons Striker Target Revealed. Got the paper and almost burst into laughter when I saw who it was - Lee Miller. Can't say I'm suprised!
If your watching Scotsport tonight and see that the banners in the RDS are upside down then I have the reason for you. At first I though members of the Red Ultras might of had one drink too many the night before but it was to symbolise the disappointment at the teams performance against Queen's Park. Apparently this is a common thing to do for many European sides.
Hah loving it.My unlce was there with his wifes nephew since it was his birthday and he's an avid Dons supporter. His nephew not my uncle who's a blue
Thats quite clever actually...
Wait til they find out someone lied to them and it was a great big wind up
Wait til they find out someone lied to them and it was a great big wind up
Joe Harper wasn't pleased about the banner stunt in his column in the Evening Express this week. He complained it was an over-reaction and an insult to the memory of two members of the backroom staff who died during the week of the CIS Cup exit. The Red Ultras hit back though with this reply.
QUOTE
I would like to let you know why the banners were upside down for the recent dunfermline match.The team humiliated the city and dons fans worldwide after the cup exit from amateur side Queens park last week.The support had talked about protests and protest banners but we werent for any of that,hanging the banners upside down was a silent way of letting the coach and the team know the Red Army werent happy.
The group also made 2 banners ,one for Peter Simpson and one for Sandy Finnie and these were displayed in front of the RDS.Big peter was known to all the group and was very helpful to us all on maychdays and we all miss him a lot.So for harper to come up with an article saying we ,as a group are disrespectful is way out of line.
I know what is disrespectful,we once asked harper to attend one of our functions to present a player of the year trophy,this would have taken about 20 minutes at most,maybe a bit longer once members had tops signed etc..but the king of the beach end wanted £800 for this...now thats disrespectful to the fans who once worshipped him.
In the end we got Duncan Shearer to do the honours,free of charge and he stayed for most of the evening.But then big dunc never fleeced the fans.
The group also made 2 banners ,one for Peter Simpson and one for Sandy Finnie and these were displayed in front of the RDS.Big peter was known to all the group and was very helpful to us all on maychdays and we all miss him a lot.So for harper to come up with an article saying we ,as a group are disrespectful is way out of line.
I know what is disrespectful,we once asked harper to attend one of our functions to present a player of the year trophy,this would have taken about 20 minutes at most,maybe a bit longer once members had tops signed etc..but the king of the beach end wanted £800 for this...now thats disrespectful to the fans who once worshipped him.
In the end we got Duncan Shearer to do the honours,free of charge and he stayed for most of the evening.But then big dunc never fleeced the fans.
Nasty stuff going on then..
I thought it was really clever, better that than booing the team on a new matchday
I thought it was really clever, better that than booing the team on a new matchday
QUOTE(CaptainCarrots @ Sep 1 2006, 08:46 PM)
Nasty stuff going on then..
I thought it was really clever, better that than booing the team on a new matchday
There has been a history of the Red Ultras falling out with the local press. The Queen's Park result was unacceptable and the only other options would have been either a banner slagging off the team or booing the side, neither of which would have helped.
Jimmy Calderwood, Jimmy Nichol and Sandy Clark have all signed two year extensions to their contracts. They were all on rolling contracts which expired every December. JC admitted that he wouldn't have been suprised if he'd been punted by the Aberdeen board following the Queen's Park result. I've lost a lot of faith in JC over the past year or so and he'll have to get us finishing higher then 6th, a good cup run and hopefully getting the team playing some good football.
The News Of the World moaned about us not selling out our seats at the Celtic match and I think part of the problem is while we are a hard team to beat now we are aren't a pretty side to watch. Even when we win its a hard slog. Hearts and Hibs have had better attedences of late because they know they'll get some good football and that even if they lose their team will play well. Our problem steems from a lack of creativity in the midfield. Jamie Smith is the only one who is creative and its a bit much to ask him to do all the fancy work. Nicholson has done an alright job since he moved but you feel he could be doing so much more for the team. Smith is also out injured at the moment and has just had groin surgery and should be out for a few more weeks at least.
The News Of the World moaned about us not selling out our seats at the Celtic match and I think part of the problem is while we are a hard team to beat now we are aren't a pretty side to watch. Even when we win its a hard slog. Hearts and Hibs have had better attedences of late because they know they'll get some good football and that even if they lose their team will play well. Our problem steems from a lack of creativity in the midfield. Jamie Smith is the only one who is creative and its a bit much to ask him to do all the fancy work. Nicholson has done an alright job since he moved but you feel he could be doing so much more for the team. Smith is also out injured at the moment and has just had groin surgery and should be out for a few more weeks at least.
Football is a strange thing. Take Sunday for example where we played our best football all season yet still ended up losing 3-1. The first half was excellent and full of really good football. Our passing was crisp, players seemed to be able to control the ball for a change without too much effort. However for all our domination and chances we just couldn't score. Without Gordon Hearts could have been 2-0 down at half-time and had nothing to complain about.
Hearts then got a break with a goal in the second half and everything fell apart (typical Aberdeen) Its OK Rangers away next weekend and thats a point in the bag for sure (at least!)
Hearts then got a break with a goal in the second half and everything fell apart (typical Aberdeen) Its OK Rangers away next weekend and thats a point in the bag for sure (at least!)
Ya cheeky bastard...
Although in fairness, we only took 2 points from 12 off you lot last season. I suppose, streaks are there to be broken
Although in fairness, we only took 2 points from 12 off you lot last season. I suppose, streaks are there to be broken
QUOTE(CaptainCarrots @ Sep 26 2006, 01:30 PM)
Ya cheeky bastard...
Although in fairness, we only took 2 points from 12 off you lot last season. I suppose, streaks are there to be broken
Like our 15 years without a win at Ibrox
QUOTE
Dons back in top spot after late double sinks Gers
Jess celebrates the opening goal.Aberdeen knew that a win at Ibrox would see them return to the top of the Premier League and with the memory of their last day defeat at the end of the previous season still hurting, it proved a perfect inspiration for the Dons players. The Dons only defeat was a shock home loss against St Johnstone, which knocked the Dons out of their stride. A disastrous home defeat against BK1903 Copenhagen in the UEFA Cup resulted in co-boss Jocky Scott leaving the club to take over in his own right at Dunfermline. That left Alex Smith in sole charge of the Dons and guide them through what was to be a crucial period. While Aberdeen were knocked out of Europe and their League Cup interest at an end, they could do little wrong in the league. With Celtic well off the pace even at that early stage it was shaping up to be another battle between Aberdeen and Rangers for the flag although Hearts had at last mustered a decent enough side.
With captain Alex McLeish missing through injury it was Stewart McKimmie who was brought in to the centre of defence with Paul Mason reverting to a wide defensive role. Aberdeen adopted a rigid formation from the outset, mindful of the dangers of the Hateley-Johnston combine, which had caused problems in the past. Not unlike previous Ibrox displays the Dons seemed happy to surrender territory and hit Rangers on the break. With Eoin Jess and Scott Booth up front the Dons had a potent strike force given the opportunity. Theo Snelders was the Aberdeen hero in the first half as he made some crucial saves and it was his contribution that kept Aberdeen in touch. With the home support becoming restless at their teams failure to breach a solid Aberdeen defence, it was the Dons who hit Rangers with two late goals to secure the impressive victory.
Grant turns away after the decisive second. In 72 minutes Ten Caat found Jess in splendid isolation in the box after a fine move and the Dons striker calmly stroked the ball past Andy Goram to put Aberdeen ahead. That signalled an immediate response from Rangers as they tried to get a foothold in the game but another slick Aberdeen break eight minutes later resulted in a second Aberdeen goal. This time it was van der Ark the dons towering Dutch striker who skipped past former Don David Robertson to set up Brian Grant to blast the ball past Goram. There was no way back for Rangers and the Ibrox stands emptied soon after that goal which left Aberdeen the relatively simple task of keeping a despondent Rangers side at bay for the closing minutes. It was sweet revenge for the Dons who had at least regained the initiative over their great rivals to go back to the top of the league. Alex Smith was a happy man after the game.
"We went to Ibrox confident despite our disappointments in the cup competitions, we were determined to get our season back on the rails. The players knew they had a point too prove and they responded in style. This was one of the few occasions that the whole team played well. There were no failures, no passengers. The experienced players set a great example Theo brought off a superb save at a crucial time and Stewart McKimmie and Brian Irvine were superb at the back. I expected Jim Bett to take command in the midfield and he did not disappoint. We are unbeaten away from Pittodrie this season in the league and now we are ahead of Rangers where we want to be."
Rangers Teamsheet: Goram, Stevens. D Robertson, Brown, Spackman, Nisbet, McCall, A Robertson, Hateley, Johnston, Mikaelachenko.
Aberdeen Teamsheet: Snelders, Mason, Connor, Grant, Irvine, McKimmie, van de Ven, Bett, Booth, Ten Caat, Jess.
Jess celebrates the opening goal.Aberdeen knew that a win at Ibrox would see them return to the top of the Premier League and with the memory of their last day defeat at the end of the previous season still hurting, it proved a perfect inspiration for the Dons players. The Dons only defeat was a shock home loss against St Johnstone, which knocked the Dons out of their stride. A disastrous home defeat against BK1903 Copenhagen in the UEFA Cup resulted in co-boss Jocky Scott leaving the club to take over in his own right at Dunfermline. That left Alex Smith in sole charge of the Dons and guide them through what was to be a crucial period. While Aberdeen were knocked out of Europe and their League Cup interest at an end, they could do little wrong in the league. With Celtic well off the pace even at that early stage it was shaping up to be another battle between Aberdeen and Rangers for the flag although Hearts had at last mustered a decent enough side.
With captain Alex McLeish missing through injury it was Stewart McKimmie who was brought in to the centre of defence with Paul Mason reverting to a wide defensive role. Aberdeen adopted a rigid formation from the outset, mindful of the dangers of the Hateley-Johnston combine, which had caused problems in the past. Not unlike previous Ibrox displays the Dons seemed happy to surrender territory and hit Rangers on the break. With Eoin Jess and Scott Booth up front the Dons had a potent strike force given the opportunity. Theo Snelders was the Aberdeen hero in the first half as he made some crucial saves and it was his contribution that kept Aberdeen in touch. With the home support becoming restless at their teams failure to breach a solid Aberdeen defence, it was the Dons who hit Rangers with two late goals to secure the impressive victory.
Grant turns away after the decisive second. In 72 minutes Ten Caat found Jess in splendid isolation in the box after a fine move and the Dons striker calmly stroked the ball past Andy Goram to put Aberdeen ahead. That signalled an immediate response from Rangers as they tried to get a foothold in the game but another slick Aberdeen break eight minutes later resulted in a second Aberdeen goal. This time it was van der Ark the dons towering Dutch striker who skipped past former Don David Robertson to set up Brian Grant to blast the ball past Goram. There was no way back for Rangers and the Ibrox stands emptied soon after that goal which left Aberdeen the relatively simple task of keeping a despondent Rangers side at bay for the closing minutes. It was sweet revenge for the Dons who had at least regained the initiative over their great rivals to go back to the top of the league. Alex Smith was a happy man after the game.
"We went to Ibrox confident despite our disappointments in the cup competitions, we were determined to get our season back on the rails. The players knew they had a point too prove and they responded in style. This was one of the few occasions that the whole team played well. There were no failures, no passengers. The experienced players set a great example Theo brought off a superb save at a crucial time and Stewart McKimmie and Brian Irvine were superb at the back. I expected Jim Bett to take command in the midfield and he did not disappoint. We are unbeaten away from Pittodrie this season in the league and now we are ahead of Rangers where we want to be."
Rangers Teamsheet: Goram, Stevens. D Robertson, Brown, Spackman, Nisbet, McCall, A Robertson, Hateley, Johnston, Mikaelachenko.
Aberdeen Teamsheet: Snelders, Mason, Connor, Grant, Irvine, McKimmie, van de Ven, Bett, Booth, Ten Caat, Jess.
Turns out Lovell will be out for six weeks after he had surgery on a groin injury. There was hope the problem would go away without the need for him to under the knife.
Do you have a clip or your left backs run (may be Touzani, not sure) who skinned Rodrigeuz and then hit the inside of the post and it somehow came back out??? I want to see it, everyones been talking about it. The only clips on YouTube now is of Rangers World, The Shitanta highlights isn't on it anymore.
It was Chris Clark...
and fucking scary it was
and fucking scary it was
Yeah thats the cove.
I can't find it, but it bounces just before hitting the post, causing an unnatural bounce that deceives Nicholson
Don't remind me of that chance. The pub I was at, everyone thought it had gone in to start with and the place was going mental. Then we looked round and saw the bounce the ball had taken. I think had we taken that chance we would have stolen the three points but it was not to be 
yah, i thought it was in cos the aberdeen support were cheering, then all of a sudden the ball was hoofed up, next thing you know we scored!
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