Dundee United 2 - 0 Aberdeen

A COMPLETE collapse as an attacking force in the second half was responsible for the Dons 2-0 defeat by Dundee United at Tannadice. The defence played its part, but the forwards, with the exception of McSpadyen, were a poor lot. The absence of Mortensen and Gavin was keenly felt.

In the first period the Dons had the United beaten to a frazzle in the outfield, but the forwards were terribly disappointing at close quarters. Pattiilo, in particular, was very weak in his finishing. He had the chances, but he was very reckless.
Time and again McSpadyen, who was in brilliant form in the first hall, left the Dundee defence standing, and lobbed over very inviting balls, but the inside men could not take advantage them. Best shot game came from a half-back, Taylor, but Brownlee saved brilliantly.
Full credit must be given the United for their wholehearted display after the interval, when they made the points secure through Juliussen. They had Aberdeen reeling with their spirited attacks, yet it was the ineffectiveness the Dons' attaok in this period which helped them to victory. The Pittodrie defence was overburdened.

Source: Press & Journal, 13th September 1943