Dunfermline Athletic 1 - 2 Aberdeen

Dons recorded their first away victory of the season at Dunfermline, where they deservedly won by the odd goal in three. Form such as was displayed in this match will take the Pittodrie team to the top of the North-Eastern League. As it is, they are level with East Fife in second place with five points. Dundee United are leaders with seven points.

The Aberdeen team never looked like losing against the Athletic. There was a confidence in their work which has been absent most games this season. They were not a brilliant combination, but they were wholehearted, and periodically played very clever football. They did not make the mistake of waiting for the ball. They went for it, and they had their reward. Team work won the day for the Dons.
The Athletic were not easily beaten. They adopted slap-dash methods, which had an unsettling effect on the Aberdeen players in the first half. After the interval, however, there could be no denying that the Dons were distinctly the better team.
Throughout, the Aberdeen defence was very steady. Johnstone might have cut out the ball which beat him. Otherwise his work inspired confidence. Cooper played one of his best games of the season, and urged his men on to greater effort. Dyer had an uncomfortable spell in the first half but recovered his form after the resumption.

Palm to Dunlop

The outstanding half-back afield was Dunlop at centre-half. He played a grand game both in defence and attack. Anderson, naturally lacking experience, worked hard and successfully, while Thomson was something like the player of pre-war days. His winning goal was beautifully taken.
Pattillo had his best game away from home this season. He led the line with skill and dash. Ferguson and Ancell schemed well. Young Cocker more than paid his way. He never shirked the robust tackling Harley, while Dryden, who scored a great goal, was the best winger on view.
The Athletic, a team which does not study the finer points the game, were best served by Hogg, Harley, Kelly and Logie. Junior got their only goal.

Source: Press & Journal, 10th January 1944