Aberdeen managed to halt a five-match losing streak with a 0-0 draw against Hearts in the Scottish Premiership on Wednesday. The match, held at Pittodrie Stadium, featured a late stoppage-time penalty save by Ross Doohan, denying Hearts' Jorge Grant and securing the crucial point for Aberdeen. This draw extended Aberdeen's winless run to 11 matches since November, bringing a slight reprieve to the beleaguered team. Meanwhile, Hearts, despite being unbeaten in four matches, remain second-bottom in the league standings.
Aberdeen's manager, Jimmy Thelin, expressed contentment with the result following their recent struggles. He emphasized the significance of the draw, saying:
"You have to sometimes be happy for the small victories when you are in this run." – Jimmy Thelin
The match began with Aberdeen taking an assertive approach, forcing several corners in the opening minutes. The Dons introduced Kristers Tobers and Jeppe Okkels in the starting lineup, marking their debuts. Despite this promising start, Topi Keskinen had two notable opportunities to score in the first half but failed to capitalize on them.
Hearts responded with increased pressure in the second half, notably through their January signings, Elton Kabangu and Jamie McCart. Kabangu, who came on for his debut in the 66th minute, nearly broke the deadlock with a powerful header from Jorge Grant's cross. However, Ross Doohan, Aberdeen's goalkeeper, made a vital intervention to tip the ball over the crossbar in the 71st minute.
In the final moments of the match, Hearts seemed poised to secure their third consecutive win. Sivert Heltne Nilsen was penalized for a foul on Hearts' substitute Kenneth Vargas, granting Hearts a penalty deep into stoppage time. Jorge Grant stepped up to take the penalty, but Doohan ensured Aberdeen's draw by pushing the ball onto the post.
Thelin acknowledged Doohan's crucial contribution after the match:
"It was a really important save. We have to try to catch these good positive moments and try to build on this one now and look forward to the next game." – Jimmy Thelin
Thelin made significant changes to his squad following their 2-0 defeat against Motherwell a week earlier. These strategic adjustments seemed to provide a fresh impetus for Aberdeen as they sought to regain their footing in the league.
For Hearts, despite the disappointment of not securing victory, there were encouraging signs. Their recent acquisitions, Kabangu and McCart, showed promise with their performances. However, capturing three points remains elusive as they continue their struggle at the lower end of the table.
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