Club Academy Scotland U18 League | Aberdeen U18’s 1-0 Motherwell U18’s | Balmoral Stadium, Cove | 10th August 2018

The young Dons got off to a winning start in the new Under 18 League by defeating Motherwell at the Balmoral Stadium. A first half strike from winger Sean Linden was enough to give Scott Anderson and Barry Robson’s side the points.

The Dons were captained by Ethan Ross and he was able to dictate the midfield alongside Connor Barron. Archie Mair did not have a lot to do in the Aberdeen goal although the visitors did go close in the second half when an effort from Motherwell crashed off the woodwork.

The only goal of the game came just before the half hour mark as Tyler Alexander’s fantastic cross-field pass found Linden and after taking two good touches he beat the Motherwell goalkeeper with a strike across the goal from about 15 yards out.

After the match Scott Anderson spoke of his delight to get off the mark on the opening day:

“We’re pleased to come away with the points and to secure a clean sheet, especially against a side who are always strong at this level.

“The 1-0 scoreline suggests it was closer than it should have been and while there wasn’t a huge amount of chances in the game the good ones fell to us and we looked a danger when going forward.

“If we’d got the second it would have made it a bit easier, but Sean’s goal was excellent. Firstly, the ball from Tyler is excellent and then after taking it away from goal produces an even better finish.”

Aberdeen: Archie Mair, Jack Chesser, Mark McLaughlin, Max Barry, Kyle Dalling, Lloyd Robertson, Sean Linden (Michael Dangana 80), Connor Barron, Lewis Duncan, Ethan Ross, Tyler Alexander (Tyler Chicken 65). Subs: Kevin Hanratty, Calvin Ramsey, Tom Ritchie.