Fortuna Sittard 0 - 3 Aberdeen
HT Score: Fortuna Sittard 0 - 2 Aberdeen
22/07/2004 | KO: 19:00
Dons win Holland opener
The Dons lined up with both trialists, Polish Internationalist striker Arek Zarczynski and Czech Republic midfielder Vit Valenta in the starting XI. Summer signing Steven Craig also started after recovering from injury and despite the transfer speculation surrounding Markus Heikkinen, he made his first appearance under Jimmy Calderwood.
The reds got off to an explosive start against the Dutch Second Division side as they took the lead after only 8 minutes. A long ball by Heikkinen down the left channel found Darren Mackie. The striker played the ball into the path of Chris Clark who crossed the ball to the back post. The wingers cross was brilliantly met by Steven Craig who scored with a diving header.
Better was to follow as Aberdeen went two in front after 13 minutes. Again the goal came from a cross down the left side. This time it was Steve Tosh who played the ball in. Zarczynki did well to flick the ball on and Darren Mackie was on hand to score at the back post.
Despite having a lot of possession in the second half the Dons were unable to create many scoring chances. However Fortuna Sittard offered little in the way of attack and David Preece was a virtual spectator for the entire 90 minutes.
There were a few misplaced passes by the Dons players towards the end although it was understandable considering the game was played in very warm conditions and there were a few tired legs. Aberdeen eventually grabbed a deserved third goal 5 minutes from time. Steven Craig's grabbed his second when his shot was deflected, leaving the Fortuna Sittard keeper stranded.
Pittodrie Stadium, Aberdeen AB24 5QH