Jimmy Thelin enjoyed his introduction to the blood and thunder of Aberdeen v Ranges games, and was again delighted by the character of his side as they were able to recover from the disappointment of being pegged back to find a winner through Shayden Morris.

“It was for sure an emotional game, a lot of things happened, there was different momentum within the game. I think our first half was one of our better ones. We attacked in different ways and the intensity of the game was really strong. In the second half, they had more momentum, but we stayed in the game with a really strong team spirit.

“It was difficult in some parts, not going exactly how we wanted, but we stayed there in the game. And then again, the players who came onto the pitch, they made some differences. We found a way to win and I’m so happy with the character of the team and the atmosphere of Pittodrie.

“Football is not only the things on the pitch, it’s also the emotions, the mental capacity and the strength for the whole team, how they work together and try to push each other. I’m so happy that right now, we are doing that quite well.”

Shayden Morris marked his 50^th appearance for the Dons with his first SPFL Premiership goal to seal the win, much to the delight of his manager.

“If you see how Shayden trains every day, he gives positive energy at Cormack Park and he’s developed more and more parts of his game. I’m so happy for him. He has tried so hard and this season, he has made an impact on the game and he fights for the team-mates but also has this individual skill, one against one, and the speed he has. I’m so glad for him to score the goal.

“But once again, it’s a game about three points, no more than that, so we take it game by game. I know, of course, the history of this game and the rivalry, and the fans have to enjoy it tonight. But for us now it’s to stay focused because we have another important game on Saturday. It’s more about how we recover now and get new energy and be ready for the next challenge. That’s where we’re focused right now.”