Derek McInnes spoke to the media after The Dons 2-0 defeat to Real Sociedad.

“We were up against a level of opponent who really tested us, tested our bravery on the ball, they tested us with their movement ahead of us.

“As a team you decide whether you go and press high up the field or you stand off them, however they make you make decisions because their movement is so good.

“I felt at half time although Jamie Langfield has not had a save to make, let's not kid ourselves it was a very tough 45 minutes.

“I actually thought we started ok, the first 15 minutes we do ok. We got the ball side to side well and worked round their shape but from the 15th minute up until five minutes before half time I thought Real Sociedad were well on top of us with the ball and against the ball.

“They forced us into mistakes. They are a good team, they are a clever team and they really tested us tonight. Derek McInnes

“We had to be pleased going in 0-0 at half time considering the amount of dominance they had. Our opportunities were few and far between.

“I think it was around 60-65 minutes before Jamie has had his first save to make. Then the first goal we lost was avoidable, both goals were avoidable. I think we should have cleared the first one, however to be fair the second one is a terrific strike, no backlift, no real chance to put pressure on the ball and sometimes you just have to applaud good individual play and that is what that was.

“We then did what we could to get an away goal because we knew the importance of that. We were a bit more threatening in the final 20 minutes.

“I applaud my players for their efforts.

“Domestically we will not be dominated like that.There is no disgrace losing 2-0 to Real Sociedad. As I say they are a very good side. The better team won.

“There are a lot of frustrated boys in that dressing room because we thought we could come here and get a result. We are not used to losing games so they are disappointed. I knew how competitive our boys are, they want to win and we will see that next Thursday.

“It is only half time. We will try and learn from tonight and try and improve going into next week's game.

“We have all seen games that can turn quickly after a goal. We know there will be a packed Pittodrie next week. It is not beyond us and we will certainly ask more questions of them.

“But it will be very different.

“I would like to thank our support for their nonstop backing through the game. They were absolutely fantastic. We will have that and more next week.

“We always believe we can win games and get results.”

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