Jimmy Thelin was pleased with what he seen from his Aberdeen team despite their defeat to Celtic.
The Dons gave a good account of themselves against the side they are ostensibly in a title race with but ultimately lost more ground on them with a narrow defeat on the night.
Reo Hatate’s well-taken finish from a lovely Greg Taylor assist was the difference and while Celtic were the better team and had further chances, Thelin’s side were well in it.
Ultimately though it is a fourth game in a row without a win for them and tonight’s opponents are now seven points ahead with a game in hand.
Aberdeen did show they can compete in a one off game and will still have belief they can challenge Rangers for the second spot.
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Jimmy Thelin still encouraged by Aberdeen
It took Celtic until the 78th minute to break Aberdeen’s resolve as Thelin’s side put up a good fight.
So while they fall further behind tonight’s opponents in the table there is plenty to keep him optimistic, even after four games without a win.
Speaking on BBC Sportsound, the Swede said: “I think the good thing for us tonight is the intensity is back, we are more acting like we want, how we are compact.
“Also think about the players coming in who have not played throughout the season, (James) McGarry and Ross (Doohan) coming in and performing today.
“So it’s good to say. And also the guys who came on in the second half too, they are growing.
“So that’s a good answer to the squad that we have this competition inside the squad.”
Aberdeen deserved a draw
Celtic may have dominated the ball but Aberdeen played well on the counter and had chances of their own.
That’s why their manager is convinced they were worthy of a point on the night.
“I think maybe a draw would be a far result,” he added. It’s two different styles, we know Celtic is really quality with the ball.
“But also our team today was really disciplined and work hard together as a unit.
“I think in terms of chances it was a tight game, equal in that way. The goal they score is top quality but also the chances we have in the end.
“I can’t remember who blocked the shot from Ester but it’s so close.
“And it was so nice to see the fans stick with us in that weather.”