After the Dons clinched third place in the cinch Premiership and booked a place in Europe next term, Barry Robson was quick to praise the performance of his players, both against St Mirren and over recent months.
“I’m very proud of the players, they were outstanding. When they want to be that aggressive on the pressing and counter-pressing, and when we stay well structured, St Mirren couldn’t deal with it in the early part of the game.
“When they went down to ten men, we probably should have kept the ball better. We brought Connor Barron on to try and get us passing the ball, but they just wanted to keep pushing for more goals, but you have to be wary you’re not too open.
“The team have taken on board what we’re trying to do and we’ve had success with it. I talk a lot about fighting and running and working hard, but that’s what the game is. It never changes. When you bring that, you give yourselves a chance. It’s not just about that, there’s lots of different elements that go into what we do, but those basics will never change and the boys bought into that.”
The three goals that beat the Buddies came from the Aberdeen midfield, starting with a glorious free-kick from Leighton Clarkson.
“He has that quality that when he puts the ball down for a free-kick, you think it’s going to be a goal. He’s been a big part of the team and when we have him, Ramadani and Shinnie in the middle of the park, it makes a difference. It was tough going away to Hearts and Rangers without the likes of Shinnie and McCrorie, they’re big players, but I’m glad they were back tonight.
“Shinnie knows the club, he loves the club, he has a great attitude, a real drive about him and that’s why I made him captain. People can get caught up in nice pass, pass, pass football but the game is much more than that and if you do the other side better than the other team, you’ve got a real chance. Graeme brings that enthusiasm and energy that you need to have.”
Reflecting on the season’s achievement, Robson was clearly delighted to deliver European football to everyone at Pittodrie.
“I’ve known the chairman and all the guys here for a long time and these people live for the football club. They work hard and they want the best for it, so finishing third and qualifying for Europe, whatever form that takes, is a good reward for them, it’s great for the club, I’m sure it’ll bring good finance in.
“Most importantly, this club should be in Europe, the fans love those nights and, after the brilliant way they’ve backed us over the last three months, they deserve it.”
