Dons manager Derek McInnes praised his team’s maturity and the clinical finishing of Adam Rooney after the Dons cruised into the second qualifying round of the Europa League.

Rooney hit a first-half hat-trick against Daugava Riga in Latvia as Aberdeen swept to a 3-0 second-leg win and set up a clash with Dutch side Groningen, who visit Pittodrie next Thursday.

Aberdeen had thrashed Daugava 5-0 in the first leg but faced a physical side who had two men sent off and a further five booked, however the second leg was a more peaceful affair as Aberdeen killed the tie.

McInnes said on REDTV: “Other than one or two balls over the top of us, we dealt with what they had to offer.

“But the three goals were well worked and it was very clinical from Adam. Two of the finishes in particular were top quality.

“In general the approach was spot-on, as it had to be to give them no encouragement.

“We asked the boys to be professional. It was a mature and competent performance, just what was required.

“The pace of the game dropped in the second half, understandably, we didn't need to chase it and they defended a bit deeper.

“All in all over the two legs there was a lot to be pleased about but we know there are bigger challenges ahead.”