Cowdenbeath 2 - 3 Aberdeen

Dons new third team began their programme 10 days ago with an encouraging 3-2 victory at Central Park Cowdenbeath against a side who were physically stronger and more mature. The Second Division club had several players in their squad of first team experience thus providing a severe test of character and determination for the Aberdeen youngsters.
The new team has been entered in the Reserve League East to provide much-needed match-play in view of the large number of players at Pittodrie. On first appearances the scheme is set to be extremely bene¬ficial.
One of the enjoyable features of the fixture was the condition of the Central Park pitch which provided an ideal playing surface for the lads to get their act together. However there was an early setback when Cowdenbeath went a goal up to set Dons the first of their examinations. This they came through in flying colours as Harvie equalised just before the break.

Early in the second-half Selbie made it 2-1 as Dons settled in to play some skilful football. However the four more experienced players in the opposition ranks were understandably more able to keep up the pace and when another senior player went on as sub it lead to an equaliser and the likelihood of a 2-2 draw. Then however a few minutes from time Selbie crossed and McCombie knocked it in for the final 3-2 scoreline.
Among the successes in Dons ranks was young Malcolm Thomson who was impressive throughout. 'It was a satisfying start to our third team fixtures,' said coach Teddy Scott, 'especially taking into account that they had more experienced players in their ranks. 'They had the greater physical strength but it was good to see our skill coming through.'
No doubt it was noted among the young players that they were the only one of the three teams to kick-off their programme with a win, their two senior teams having both drawn against Dundee on opening day.

Source: Match Programme, 19th August 1987