Aberdeen 3 - 1 St. Johnstone

DEWAR SHIELD SEMI-FINAL.

Although losing the first goal, Aberdeen were overwhelmingly superior to St Johnstone, whom they beat by 3-1 in the semi-final of the Dewar Shield competition at Pittodrie last night. Neither was at full strength, and rain before the start restricted the attendance to 4000.

In the earlier stages Aberdeen bombarded the visitors' goal, and McLaren, their 'keeper, stopped or diverted many excellent shots. It was against the run of play when, in a breakaway, St Johnstone took the lead, Nicholson accepting a pass from Cameron to score with a glorious first-time shot.
Subsequently Aberdeen attacked with great determination, but could do almost anything but score, McLaren continuing to distinguish himself, and it was largely due to his fine work that the interval found Aberdeen still in arrears. He was accorded an ovation.

Aberdeen's Recovery.

Aberdeen were not long in arrears after the second half was entered upon. Hill and Love on the left combined with great effect, and from a corner placed by Love, McMeekin headed the equaliser. The visitors continued to be kept on the defensive, and it was no surprise when from another corner kick by Love, David gave Aberdeen the lead.
St Johnstone continued to put up a dogged resistance, but their forwards seldom got beyond midfield and the visitors' goal ran further narrow escapes before Love put on a third goal after accepting from David and meeting a rebound off a shot by himself.

Won With Ease.

Aberdeen won more easily than the score would suggest. They were splendidly served by the defence, in which McLaren was always outstanding, and Love (best forward on the field), Hill, and McMeekin were grand attackers.
McLaren gave a great display in the St Johnstone goal, and saved his side from a much heavier defeat. Others who showed to advantage were Wilson, Ireland, and Nicholson.

Source: Press & Journal, 13 August 1931