May 25, 2025 • 34 mins
We just went and won the Scottish Cup 🏆
It’s the big one – the last AFC DONScast of the season and we’re going out with a bang!
This week, we bring you comprehensive pre and post-match coverage of the Scottish Cup Final showdown between Aberdeen and Celtic. From the build-up to the final whistle and beyond, we’ve got you covered.
đź”´ Hear interviews with:
Jimmy Thelin – sharing his thoughts pre and post match
Kevin Nisbet – on daring to dream
Graeme Shinnie – looking back on his 299 appearances so far
Jack Milne and Mats Knoester – on our Scottish Cup
win
We’ll also bring you the latest on the SPFL play-offs, plus, a roundup of the latest Dons news from the past week as we wrap up an unforgettable campaign.
🎧 Don’t miss our season finale – your essential listen for all things Aberdeen FC!
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
(00:00):
Hi, feeling a wee bit delicate after yesterday?
Let's rewind 24 hours back to Hamden to relive it all once
again. From the first minute to the
last. You've been with us all season.
(00:31):
We're going to give it everything at Hamden.
In front of over 20,000 Don's fans, all in red.
I hope to. Add the cup to.
Their. Scottish League and Scottish
League Cup France victory for Aberdeen, There's a kiss.
(00:59):
And there's a cup still black. Well, there we are to clean with
the eye as white as the NorthernLights.
And there it is. Yes, what McGee does it.
There he is, William, captain ofAberdeen.
A great chance. John Hewitt and there's the goal
scoring hero. Bring him the rear John Hewitt.
(01:20):
Special cheer for him. Ryan Urban at the task of
winning the cup for Aberdeen. Aberdeen 01.
Holding a walk to the Aberdeen supporters.
Does it come much bigger? Scottish Cup.
End of the season, last game of the season.
(01:41):
Domestic. Game of the season as well.
What a trophy. To lift up.
Go and believe and I'll tell youwhat.
Make your own little piece of history.
The boat app was well and away through the week and the time
had come. Welcome to our Scottish Cap
final edition of the AFC Donscast.
(02:32):
Hello and welcome, it's Graeme Mackay here with the last AFC
Dos cast of the season, Art Hampden and what a way to end it
through the week. There was a big build up to the
occasion here yesterday, the city, Shire and wide in a field
embracing it all leading up to red and White day on Friday.
(02:54):
Come on, you Reds. Come on you Reds.
Go on the Reds. Come on, you Reds.
Come on, your Reds. Come on, your Reds.
Come on, your Reds. Come on your Reds.
(03:16):
Come on, your Reds. Good luck for Saturday, come on
the Dons. Come on, you Reds.
Come on you Reds. Come on, you Reds.
Come on, you Reds. Yes.
(03:37):
And Kevin Nesbitt dared to dreamand it look ahead to the match.
I'm excited, really excited. It's.
It's going to be a massive day, massive day for the players,
massive day for the club, massive day for the fans and.
There's a lot of fans. Coming out as well so.
It's up to us to go and. Put a good.
Good show on them and make all enjoy our day.
Do you light yourself a dream about scoring a hand in on
(03:59):
Saturday? Can you?
Of course I I think everyone wants to.
Score the winner, but. That would take care.
Deflection in the last. In the last minute to win one
nil or anyone in the team to score just just.
To win the Scottish Cup, it'd bemassive.
For the club, massive. For the fans and master as well.
Under captain Graham, Shinny made his 300th appearance for
(04:20):
the Dons yesterday. We asked him some questions on
his 299 appearances so far. How many goals have you scored
in your Aberdeen career so far? 2221 What's your favourite
Aberdeen goal in terms of quality?
Probably Apple on Limassol at home. 299 appearances.
(04:42):
How many starts? 200 and 55288 so test your mass
if you've started 288, how many appearances from the bench?
1111 You remember who your firstgame was against skin?
(05:02):
Did you second debut? St.
Johnstone? Best game you've played in so
far? Frankfurt away maybe Hardest
opponent? Good question.
Johnny Hazen training Last question over the 299
appearances favourite moments sofar?
It sounds daft but one of my happiest moments was when I came
(05:25):
back on loan and we beat St. Johnstone 2 nil and they've
played because at that point in my career and even in my life, I
wasn't playing at Wigan and I was living away from the family
and it was really tough and I came back here and obviously the
love I got when I came back and then that game to win and feel
like I was back home was specialto me.
(05:46):
And straight down to the matter in hand then and before the
match, Jimmy Tillian spoke to the media been. 35 years since
Aberdeen last won the Scottish Cup.
How does it feel knowing that you can write your name into the
history books on Saturday? No, I think like all the players
and staff talked about before with the I think football is an
(06:08):
incredible sport and it's not every year you're on your final.
I think it was seven years last time we were in the Scottish Cup
final and it's always trying to enjoy this moment, to try to
catch this moment and and all the players and and the staff.
(06:30):
We have a strong belief and a shared belief that we can do a
really well performance on Saturday and and give us a
chance to win this one. Just.
From a personal point of view, would you say this is the
biggest game of your managerial career so far?
Yeah, I think the, the, the Scottish gap has a really big
history. It's a, it's a big thing.
(06:53):
And we can feel already in the around the club and around the
country, It's a, it's a, it's a big thing happening on Saturday.
And so we're really excited for this moment, everyone.
There's a lot going on in the city, a lot going on the club as
well. Have you started to notice those
differences? Because people like to tell us
(07:14):
that it's just another game, it's just another game.
But this really is, I suppose, the the show, the showcase game
in Scottish football must be different for you as a manager
as. Well, no, I think like you
should should embrace it becauseit is a final and and I said
before, it's not during a career.
Maybe it's not how many finals you can be as a player or
manager. So you have to enjoy this moment
(07:35):
and but focus on the things thatwe can control our performance,
our preparations, our tactics, our strategy and focus on this
thing and, and then go out thereand prepare ourselves to try to
to win an exciting game and in the final of.
Course you suffered a heavy defeat to to Celtic in the
league last week Pittodrie. Just how different in Aberdeen
(07:58):
side are we going to see in thiscup final come Saturday?
I think you also have to move on.
It's a final. Of course, we learn things from
that game, but it's also final. It's a different, different kind
of game and in the league and when you feel the spirit among
the players that also want looking forward to the game and
(08:21):
you can feel the belief among the players.
So that's in the past. Now it's the final only thing we
can see in front of us. Just find out from me what would
it mean to you if you're able tolift that trophy on your head on
on Saturday afternoon? No, I think we I think you
always in, in this in the football world, you have to to
have strong belief and be dream big.
(08:43):
And that's why you have to dreamabout this and try to to do
things and let's see what we're going to feel on on if this
happened. Jimmy, I do not have much
attention you paid to the maybe the outside noise from media
etcetera. I think a lot of people will
would suggest that if Averton wins on Saturday it would be a
(09:05):
real a big shock in the history of the Scottish Cup.
Can you use that as a motivation, I suppose going into
that that game? I think like, first of all,
Brandon Rodgers is a really goodmanager and, and Celtic is a
good team and, but we don't focus too much on the noise
outside. We, we're trying to build the
(09:27):
belief from, from ourselves and what we can do.
And, and that's where our focus are.
And, and of course it's going toalways be opinions and, and
other beliefs, but we have to believe in our journey and, and,
and try to catch this moment. What is?
It about that belief, like why do you think Aberdeen are
(09:47):
capable of winning on Saturday? I think we have a clear plan
what we want to do. We're training well now.
We think it's a shared belief inside the squad.
We it's the last game for the season.
It is the final, but all all thethings around the final and it's
just that game that's moment andwe have to stay in this moment
(10:10):
and and give us the chance to stay in the game and and give us
a chance to win a game and I winthe final.
You had a. Chance to see the trophy this
afternoon. You look very comfortable.
Yeah, I think it was really nice.
Yeah, quite. Happy to bring that back to
Aberdeen of course. Like that's the thing with these
(10:31):
big cups, you have seen some other moments in around Europe
this year, how much it means to people and our finalists are
final. And so it's going to means a lot
for everyone involved, of course, in Albany Football club,
around the club and everybody inthe city.
I'm sure you're. Going to tell me that you don't
(10:51):
want the focus to be on you and your career.
But can I just ask you how it would feel for you as a manager,
you know, to be able to win thattrophy and given the fact
Aberdeen haven't won that trophysince 1990, that I wasn't even
born actually. So you know, like you know, how,
how would it feel for you in terms of your career?
I promise you I will show that if that happened on Saturday.
(11:13):
Have you picked your team for Saturday?
We have a clear plan what we going to do, what's.
Your team news. I think it's the same as before.
Everybody is available except Sievet and Esther Socler and
Whitney. 11 Last question and can I ask how Jack Mackenzie is
(11:33):
doing and will he be available for Saturday?
He's. Training on the pitch today and
he was OK and he's he's available for the game on
Saturday. Good luck.
Thank you so much, Jimmy. It's a. 5050 split How important
will the fans be on Saturday andwhat message do you have for the
(11:54):
travel in Aberdeen fans? First of all, I have to thank
them for the this year in the league and and the journey they
have done with us all around thecountry and at home at Pittadry.
They have been massive, well supported the whole, the whole
year and now we do this for thisseason, the last journey
(12:14):
together and it means a lot. And you see how quick we sold
the tickets. So it's really nice to have the
support in this this exciting game on Saturday.
Jimmy on Saturday, will every one of your players have to be
10 out of 10 for you to lift this trophy?
(12:36):
Yeah, it's going to be really strong performance again.
Celtic is a really strong team. They have showed that with the
with the the League Cup and the and the league title.
So, but now we are in the final and we're not going to give in
or give away something. We're going to try the best we
can and and we have a strong belief we can do it.
(12:59):
How? Important is it, despite Celtic
being overwhelming favourites for most people, that that you
go out there as a team and and show not show No Fear.
I think like the the for me it'sthe again, what can we control
in this game? It's we can't control what
Celtic going to do and, and all the thing around we can control
(13:20):
what we going to do, our tactics, our strategy, our
performance, our togetherness, our worth ethic, everything we
can control that's we're going to focus on and and try to do
the best team performance we have done and the best one for
this season and. What will be the?
The the last. Thing you'll say to the players
(13:41):
in the dressing room before theycross that white line.
I have no clue right now. Will it just be go and believe
that you can do? Yeah.
I think the preparation is now and then on Saturday is
Saturday, so I think the the wayto to perform and and try to win
the game has already started. Then on Saturday it's then we
(14:01):
have to be ready. Jimmy, just to go back to Jack
McKenzie, it's great to hear that he physically sounds like
he's doing OK, but how has he been mentally and emotionally
this week after what happened atthe?
Week, I think we have a strong support around the team and good
teammates and and good staff andhe's a strong guy and and he has
(14:22):
been performing well in the sessions.
We tried also to look for forward not looking back and
taking care of him and and so he's he's doing well.
There's been a. Few near messes with similar
incidents across the country. That's you.
Do you think that's particular? One's about about a wake up call
that that more needs to be done to to try and prevent incidents
(14:43):
I think. Like the player safety is always
like in every area where you're working in life, if it's
football or somewhere else, you have to be feel safer at a job
of course, but incidents can happen sometimes in life, in
football, somewhere else and it's not OK because it happened,
but it can happen. But overall you think about the
(15:04):
big picture, all the support we have this year, the Aberdeen
football family, it's incredibleexperience for me to be in
involved with this, this year. All the emotions, the whole
season, the support we have the whole season.
So overall it's amazing club andand supporters and sometimes
(15:25):
incidents can happen. It was not OK.
It could be and even worse what happened, but if you see about
the bigger picture, it's it's been a good year in my opinion,
but we we always have to see it secure that place are safe and,
and, and staff and whatever, wherever you work with, you have
to feel safe at the job. It's an afternoon Aberdeen will
(15:47):
never forget. For the first time in 35 years
Aberdeen have lifted the Scottish cap, repeating history
by beating Celtic on penalties, just as we did back in 1990.
After a brutal 120 minutes of football fell with relentless
Celtic pressure, tactical discipline from the dawns and a
pair of fluke own goals, the final headed to a nerve
shredding shootout. But when it mattered most,
(16:09):
Demeter Mittov stood tall. The Bulgarian keeper became the
Granite Cities hero, saving spotkicks from Callum McGregor and
Alistair Johnston to steal a famous 43 penalty win and deny
Celtic a domestic treble. The match itself was a dramatic
roller coaster. Celtic dominated possession but
couldn't breakdown our stubborn backline.
We fell behind after a cruel owngoal by Alfie Dorrington.
(16:31):
That late drama came courtesy ofshaded Morris who deflected
strike of Casper Schmeichel brought his level with just 8
minutes to play. From there the dead army roared
the side through extra time as chance after chance came and
went for Celtic. Then, in front of Celtic and the
shootout began, he faces Dimitar.
Meet off Celtics captain McGregor saved by Dimitar.
(16:56):
Meet off plus the 2 captains going first.
Shinny this time makes no mistake.
Four final defeats with Aberdeenon his first and only start for
the club against Aberdeen at Pittodrie 11 days ago.
Johnny Kenny sends Neath off thewrong way, Pulvara perfect
(17:17):
penalty and Aberdeen maintain their one goal advantage now.
Luke Mccowan. Mccowan done with poise.
Palestinian delivers for the Dons.
(17:38):
What a penalty that was the outstanding player in Scotland
this season. Dyson Maeda, when he gets it
through the hands of metal and take Palaversa, goes high and
beyond. Michael Aberdeen are a moment
away from history. Alistair Johnson has to score.
(18:02):
It's saved by Dimitar Mittal. It's 1990 all over again.
The check is complete. Aberdeen left the Scottish Cup
and the 35 year wait. The long, long wait is over.
(18:23):
2025 is the year of the underdog.
Aberdeen had to endure so much pressure throughout 120 minutes
against this dominant Celtic side, but they found a way to
get level. They found a way to get to
penalty kicks and this is the stop of legends, the moment of
(18:50):
anticipation almost over as Graham Shinny gets his hands on
the trophy. The. 2025 Scottish Cup winners
are Aberdeen and the Scottish Cup will sparkle at Pittodrie
(19:11):
once again. They dare to dream to to dream
big, and not many gave them a chance today, but they believed
they delivered and three decadesof the weight of success are
released. And as he heard there, Graham
(19:33):
Shenney on his 300th appearance,stepped at 1st and scored middle
of deny McGregor and then did itagain to Johnston with the cap
on the line. With that save Aberdeen secured
our 8th Scottish cap title, our first major honour since 2014,
and clinch guaranteed European group stage football until
Christmas. After being written off all
season, beaten heavily by Celticin previous meetings, this was a
(19:55):
tactical master class and a display of resilience with Telen
becoming the first man to win a trophy for the Dons in over a
decade. The team all heroes on an
afternoon that will live long inAberdeen history.
Let the celebrations begin. First up, you'll be Telen.
Jimmy, you've just won the Scottish Cup with Aberdeen.
How does that feel? You can see the the emotions
(20:17):
from the, our supporters, the supporters the whole season,
everybody around the club, the the players and, and to be a
part of this club and and experience this is, it's so
amazing. Did the game go as you planned?
Was it a game plan to really hitthem in those final minutes?
We have a plan to be really strong in defence today and and
believe in our transitions and the the players fight so hard.
(20:40):
There was the cramp, they were tired but they keep running and
they believe in it and everybody, every player is not
inside the score but everyone here to support the soul.
They were totally amazing to rate the players and the fans.
And heading to penalties, was that something that you thought
about practise all week? We did.
We did actually practise a little bit to to walk it from
the halfway line and be cool, they said.
The players were really, really,really strong today and they
(21:01):
have a strong belief in this. And then finally, just end on a
word for the fans. You can see what it means to
them, but for you personally, what does it mean to bring a
trophy to them at the end of what's been an up and down
season but ultimately ends on a positive note?
I. Think like first of all the cup
today, Brendan Rodgers is amazing managers, he's a strong
team and we have this opportunity to be in a final and
(21:22):
we have to want to take it, takeit.
But it's been amazing, amazing season to be involved and and
and to be in this country to to get this passion about the
football and and of course, to win the truth with the the first
year you arrive here is togetherwith my staff and the place and
everybody is is I'm just relieved and happy now I'm I'm
(21:43):
tired. Well, enjoy the celebrations,
can hear your voices already going.
It's gone. It's gone, so I'm gonna be quiet
tonight. Thank you.
Congratulations. Thank.
You. Thank you.
A young man that showed what he's capable of, Jack Melon
spoke to Rob McLean. Jack.
Third game of the season, third start of the season.
And it wasn't a bad start, was it?
No, it was. Pretty, pretty special.
(22:06):
I found out today that I was, I was going to be starting.
I had an idea this week when we were doing Shape and yeah, like,
I just knew I had to go on and treat it like any other game
and, and do my thing and obviously.
A new defensive structure as well, yeah.
The manager said that pretty early on this week that we're,
we're going to change things slightly and to try and counter,
counter what they were doing. And yeah, we did a lot of work
(22:26):
on it, a lot of shape stuff, tactical and yeah, paid off.
It. Takes a bit of doing beating
Celtic, doesn't it? It does.
Yeah, it's the first time I've beaten Celtic since since I've
been here and we know, we know how good A-Team they are and we
just had to try and do our best to kind of counter what they
were doing. We knew they were going to have
a lot of possession and we were fine with that as long as once
(22:48):
it came in our box or around ourbox, we dealt with it, which we
did. And then you go.
Behind, and that becomes even more difficult.
And it was a kind of freaky goal, wasn't it?
Yeah, it was. It was.
It's not ideal set piece as well, but we knew we were still
in the game. We had to keep it at one nil.
We knew we couldn't, couldn't let our heads go and start
chasing places where we don't need to and leaving gaps and
(23:08):
yeah, keep it at one. No, we knew we still still had a
chance. And then?
Shayden Morris came on and he's the magic man, of course, that's
what he. Does the Super sub.
He's been brilliant and honestlyhis pace is frightening, the
positions he gets himself into is brilliant and he deserves
that goal. A big.
Save by Demi Mitov before I actually went to penalties
one-on-one with Maida. Yeah, that.
Was huge. He just spun in behind it was
(23:31):
one of those. I thought about fouling him, but
I just, I try to leave him and then, yeah, thankfully Demi Demi
bailed me out. You weren't.
Fancing a penalty in the shootout, were you?
No, that's already done that last year and I couldn't knock
it. I was nervous by now it was just
cramped. I would have happily taken 1.
I think it's penalties are scored and missed all the time.
It's all about the courage and the boys that stepped up fair
(23:52):
plate and they were all clinical, calm, composed and
Demi as well was brilliant. How does?
That feel as an achievement. The the best day of my life to
date. It's a dream come true when that
they may save that last penalty I was somehow managed to run
over even though both my caps were going back.
No, it's amazing. A trophy and European group
(24:15):
stage football. I mean, it took me a while to
realise that in the aftermath that was coming as well, yeah.
No, it doesn't get much better than that.
I think that's the best way to do it.
We've always wanted to to win a trophy and it's been a long time
since since we've won the Scottish Cup And yeah, delighted
that we could do it and. Hampton was red.
It was. Yep, and Hampton is red.
(24:35):
Well done. Thank you very.
Much we also caught with under the match mark Canister.
Trying to sum up your feelings post match.
It's hard to describe. I think it needs to still hit as
well. It's it's been a mental game.
We had to defend like crazy. We had a solid block.
(24:56):
So many emotions. Look around, Joe.
It's, it's unbelievable. How did it feel at the end of
those long 120 minutes walking up those steps to finally
receive that medal, with that trophy?
Like deserved. Yeah, I'll play.
Our plan worked right. So you could, you could see us
(25:16):
growing in the game, even thoughwe didn't do much attacking.
We knew Celtic is a good team, you know, So you have to come
with a with a good plan and a good, good team performance.
And yeah, so happy that we that we could do it.
What was that plan against Celtic today?
What did you be set out to do? Well, start with the first with
a solid block in the back. Let them play around us, but not
(25:39):
through US. Stay in the game.
And then believe in those those chances, those transitions.
And yeah, it worked so. And finally.
During the shoot out, what were the nerves like?
Sorry, during the shoot out whatwere the nerves like watching
it? I had confidence in in, in our,
(26:00):
in our guys in, in Demi. So I was confident, but I had to
take the 5th, so I was also happy that we could finish it.
Well, as well as taking that fifth year also today's player
of the match, we've got a special trophy for you.
Congratulations. Thank you, thank you and the.
Celebrations continued through the night and in Aberdeen this
lunchtime and I'm sure there wasa few worse for wear on the open
(26:22):
top best parade as thousands of the Red Army lined the streets
and watched the team make its way down to Aberdeen townhouse.
Led by the Texo D side CaledoniaPipe Band, the players made a
balcony appearance with the Scottish cap and Aberdeen Lord
Prophets Doctor David Cameron. So this music may be familiar.
That's because we're also celebrating and securing a
(26:43):
European windfall worth ÂŁ5 million or more to the club.
After the dramatic penalty shootout at Hampden.
It's sealed a place in the Europa League playoff round.
That means guaranteed group stage football next season.
Even if we lose at the final hurdle, we drop to the
Conference League group stages, guaranteeing European football
until Christmas and a significant financial boost for
(27:04):
the club. It's a blow for Hibs who now
drop down to the second qualifying round of the same
competition while Daddy United and Hed the Conference League
spot. The hangover from the post match
carry on in their final match ofthe season against Dandy.
United continued during the pastweek but thankfully didn't over
(27:27):
shadow the excitement on the build up to the cap and Aberdeen
Mann has appeared in court following the incident last
weekend. 31 year old David Gowans from Aberdeen has been
charged with culpable and reckless conduct after Jack
Mackenzie was struck by a chair on the pitch at Tanadice Park.
Mackenzie was treated on the pitch for a serious facial
injury and taken off in a wheelchair.
Former Dons striker Jay EmmanuelThomas has pleaded guilty to a
(27:50):
major drug smuggling offence involving cannabis.
The 34 year old striker admittedto attempting to import around
ÂŁ600,000 worth of cannabis through Stansted Airport.
Emmanuel Thomas changed his pleaded guilty earlier this
month at Chelmsford Crime Court and reporting restrictions on
the case were lifted on Wednesday.
The offence relates to the fraudulent evasion of the
prohibition on cannabis importation between July and
(28:12):
September last year. National Crime Agency officers
arrested Emmanuel Thomas and Gudik after Border Force
officials seized 2 suitcases containing 60 kilogrammes of the
drag. The luggage had arrived from
Bangkok on September the 2nd. He had initially denied the
charges last October but will now remain in custody ahead of
the sentencing. J Emmanuel Thomas is expected to
(28:32):
be sentenced in person at a later date.
As Aberdeen prepared for this weekend's Scottish Cap final,
chairman Dave Cormac says manager Yamatilin is the man to
bring long term stability and success back to Aberdeen.
After a season filled with apps and downs, the Dons returned to
Hampden for the third time this campaign and Cormac believes the
club is building something solidfor the future.
(28:54):
It's been an erratic but eventful first season in charge
for Yummy Talin, guiding Aberdeen to a fifth place finish
and securing European football once again.
Chairman Dave Cormac is confident the foundations are
being laid for sustained progress.
He says the club has had too many managerial changes in
recent years and what they need now is a longer term plan for
Cormac. Talin will need a couple of
years to shape the squad in a way that truly fits the club's
(29:17):
adopted playing system. Competition in the Premiership
is fiercer than ever. The resurgence of Hearts, Hibbs
and Dundee United has raised thebar but Cormac welcomes the
challenge. He believes the league is more
competitive than it was a decadeago and says it's healthy for
Scottish football. He says being at Hampton
regularly as vital but more importantly the aim is to win
trophies. Cormac believes the club gave
(29:38):
everything last year in the semifinal and credits coach Peter
Levin for helping steer the teamthrough the disappointment.
And the Dons weren't short of support this weekend after the
club ensured the maximum allocation of fans would be in
the stands. Aberdeen originally received
16,800 tickets but Cormac and chief exec Alan Barrows fought
for more. The club committed to covering
any unsold tickets to ensure over 20,000 supporters could
(30:01):
make the trip. The entire allocation sold out
in one day and is out Cormac says justifies their push for a
5050 ticket split for all finals.
Moving forward, he believes bothclubs should always get equal
chance to fill Hampden and say this summer final was never in
doubt in terms of demand. Although he splits time between
Atlanta and Aberdeen, Cormac wasin the stands at Mt Florida with
(30:21):
family from both sides of the Atlantic, including his 95 year
old mother and his grandchildren.
Off the pitch, the signs of progress to Aberdeen are clear
and the next generation is leading the change, but Audrey
has seen a significant increase in crimes this season, with
attendances at by over 30% compared to pre COVID figures.
The average age of fans has dropped from 40 to 35, something
(30:43):
Cormac takes immense pride in. He says when you bring in young
fans, you've got them for life. Initiatives like 3 memberships
for under twelves, fan experience programmes and
affordable pricing for under eighteens have created a strong
growing connection between the club and its supporters.
He recalls his own first time inPittodrie mainstand wasn't
Antalya was 41. Today 12,000 primary school kids
(31:05):
are members of the club. And as he puts it, the old guard
haven't stopped going. It's just that the younger
generation is showing up in bigger numbers than ever.
(31:27):
Let's be honest, this season hadeverything.
A new manager in the deck out, a5th place finish in the league
and European football secured for next season.
The Mittalene's first year in Scottish Rupal has been anything
but quiet. He came in with a clear plan, a
longer term vision for building something solid.
As the curtain falls on another campaign.
I just want to take a moment to say a massive thank you to you,
our amazing listeners, for sticking with us every step of
(31:49):
the way. Whether it's been the highs, the
lows or everything in between, your support has meant the
world. There's been a season of
passion, pride and perseverance.I would be proud to bring you
all the latest from Petaudre andbeyond.
To everyone who tuned in, sharedan episode, sent in messages, or
simply kept the faith, thank you.
You're the heart and soul of this podcast and the Red Army.
We'll be taking a break over thesummer, but we'll be back before
(32:10):
you know it with all the build up to the 202526 season.
Until then, you can keep up to date with the latest summer
signings on our socials, on Facebook X Blue Sky, Mastodon
and Threads. Just search for us at AFC
Donscast and on the website afcdonscast.co.uk.
Till next season, stay safe, enjoy the offseason and as
always, stand free. Red.
(32:51):
Simple colour which means so much everyone knows to who it
belongs. Dots, the famous Aberdeen Ruid
in the northeast, emblem of our city.
Red flag flying high D to the dawn under our granite sky.
Renowned on these shores. Europe knows too, defeating the
(33:13):
best from east to West. Red, not blue, not green.
Everyone has a choice to supporttheir local team.
Do it and you will see and feel what others never do.
Relentless support through ups and downs.
European cities to seaside times, day or night, rain, wind
(33:37):
or hail. Rd.
Rail even. By sea or sky.
Dedication to the cause which money can buy.
Rewarding, sometimes engaging, always dull, never real.
Emotional, dramatic, ready to doit again.
(34:01):
Everyone together, down up torture RE.
Hi, feeling a wee bit delicate after yesterday?
Let's rewind 24 hours back to Hamden to relive it all once
again. From the first minute to the
last. You've been with us all season.
(00:31):
We're going to give it everything at Hamden.
In front of over 20,000 Don's fans, all in red.
I hope to. Add the cup to.
Their. Scottish League and Scottish
League Cup France victory for Aberdeen, There's a kiss.
(00:59):
And there's a cup still black. Well, there we are to clean with
the eye as white as the NorthernLights.
And there it is. Yes, what McGee does it.
There he is, William, captain ofAberdeen.
A great chance. John Hewitt and there's the goal
scoring hero. Bring him the rear John Hewitt.
(01:20):
Special cheer for him. Ryan Urban at the task of
winning the cup for Aberdeen. Aberdeen 01.
Holding a walk to the Aberdeen supporters.
Does it come much bigger? Scottish Cup.
End of the season, last game of the season.
(01:41):
Domestic. Game of the season as well.
What a trophy. To lift up.
Go and believe and I'll tell youwhat.
Make your own little piece of history.
The boat app was well and away through the week and the time
had come. Welcome to our Scottish Cap
final edition of the AFC Donscast.
(02:32):
Hello and welcome, it's Graeme Mackay here with the last AFC
Dos cast of the season, Art Hampden and what a way to end it
through the week. There was a big build up to the
occasion here yesterday, the city, Shire and wide in a field
embracing it all leading up to red and White day on Friday.
(02:54):
Come on, you Reds. Come on you Reds.
Go on the Reds. Come on, you Reds.
Come on, your Reds. Come on, your Reds.
Come on, your Reds. Come on your Reds.
(03:16):
Come on, your Reds. Good luck for Saturday, come on
the Dons. Come on, you Reds.
Come on you Reds. Come on, you Reds.
Come on, you Reds. Yes.
(03:37):
And Kevin Nesbitt dared to dreamand it look ahead to the match.
I'm excited, really excited. It's.
It's going to be a massive day, massive day for the players,
massive day for the club, massive day for the fans and.
There's a lot of fans. Coming out as well so.
It's up to us to go and. Put a good.
Good show on them and make all enjoy our day.
Do you light yourself a dream about scoring a hand in on
(03:59):
Saturday? Can you?
Of course I I think everyone wants to.
Score the winner, but. That would take care.
Deflection in the last. In the last minute to win one
nil or anyone in the team to score just just.
To win the Scottish Cup, it'd bemassive.
For the club, massive. For the fans and master as well.
Under captain Graham, Shinny made his 300th appearance for
(04:20):
the Dons yesterday. We asked him some questions on
his 299 appearances so far. How many goals have you scored
in your Aberdeen career so far? 2221 What's your favourite
Aberdeen goal in terms of quality?
Probably Apple on Limassol at home. 299 appearances.
(04:42):
How many starts? 200 and 55288 so test your mass
if you've started 288, how many appearances from the bench?
1111 You remember who your firstgame was against skin?
(05:02):
Did you second debut? St.
Johnstone? Best game you've played in so
far? Frankfurt away maybe Hardest
opponent? Good question.
Johnny Hazen training Last question over the 299
appearances favourite moments sofar?
It sounds daft but one of my happiest moments was when I came
(05:25):
back on loan and we beat St. Johnstone 2 nil and they've
played because at that point in my career and even in my life, I
wasn't playing at Wigan and I was living away from the family
and it was really tough and I came back here and obviously the
love I got when I came back and then that game to win and feel
like I was back home was specialto me.
(05:46):
And straight down to the matter in hand then and before the
match, Jimmy Tillian spoke to the media been. 35 years since
Aberdeen last won the Scottish Cup.
How does it feel knowing that you can write your name into the
history books on Saturday? No, I think like all the players
and staff talked about before with the I think football is an
(06:08):
incredible sport and it's not every year you're on your final.
I think it was seven years last time we were in the Scottish Cup
final and it's always trying to enjoy this moment, to try to
catch this moment and and all the players and and the staff.
(06:30):
We have a strong belief and a shared belief that we can do a
really well performance on Saturday and and give us a
chance to win this one. Just.
From a personal point of view, would you say this is the
biggest game of your managerial career so far?
Yeah, I think the, the, the Scottish gap has a really big
history. It's a, it's a big thing.
(06:53):
And we can feel already in the around the club and around the
country, It's a, it's a, it's a big thing happening on Saturday.
And so we're really excited for this moment, everyone.
There's a lot going on in the city, a lot going on the club as
well. Have you started to notice those
differences? Because people like to tell us
(07:14):
that it's just another game, it's just another game.
But this really is, I suppose, the the show, the showcase game
in Scottish football must be different for you as a manager
as. Well, no, I think like you
should should embrace it becauseit is a final and and I said
before, it's not during a career.
Maybe it's not how many finals you can be as a player or
manager. So you have to enjoy this moment
(07:35):
and but focus on the things thatwe can control our performance,
our preparations, our tactics, our strategy and focus on this
thing and, and then go out thereand prepare ourselves to try to
to win an exciting game and in the final of.
Course you suffered a heavy defeat to to Celtic in the
league last week Pittodrie. Just how different in Aberdeen
(07:58):
side are we going to see in thiscup final come Saturday?
I think you also have to move on.
It's a final. Of course, we learn things from
that game, but it's also final. It's a different, different kind
of game and in the league and when you feel the spirit among
the players that also want looking forward to the game and
(08:21):
you can feel the belief among the players.
So that's in the past. Now it's the final only thing we
can see in front of us. Just find out from me what would
it mean to you if you're able tolift that trophy on your head on
on Saturday afternoon? No, I think we I think you
always in, in this in the football world, you have to to
have strong belief and be dream big.
(08:43):
And that's why you have to dreamabout this and try to to do
things and let's see what we're going to feel on on if this
happened. Jimmy, I do not have much
attention you paid to the maybe the outside noise from media
etcetera. I think a lot of people will
would suggest that if Averton wins on Saturday it would be a
(09:05):
real a big shock in the history of the Scottish Cup.
Can you use that as a motivation, I suppose going into
that that game? I think like, first of all,
Brandon Rodgers is a really goodmanager and, and Celtic is a
good team and, but we don't focus too much on the noise
outside. We, we're trying to build the
(09:27):
belief from, from ourselves and what we can do.
And, and that's where our focus are.
And, and of course it's going toalways be opinions and, and
other beliefs, but we have to believe in our journey and, and,
and try to catch this moment. What is?
It about that belief, like why do you think Aberdeen are
(09:47):
capable of winning on Saturday? I think we have a clear plan
what we want to do. We're training well now.
We think it's a shared belief inside the squad.
We it's the last game for the season.
It is the final, but all all thethings around the final and it's
just that game that's moment andwe have to stay in this moment
(10:10):
and and give us the chance to stay in the game and and give us
a chance to win a game and I winthe final.
You had a. Chance to see the trophy this
afternoon. You look very comfortable.
Yeah, I think it was really nice.
Yeah, quite. Happy to bring that back to
Aberdeen of course. Like that's the thing with these
(10:31):
big cups, you have seen some other moments in around Europe
this year, how much it means to people and our finalists are
final. And so it's going to means a lot
for everyone involved, of course, in Albany Football club,
around the club and everybody inthe city.
I'm sure you're. Going to tell me that you don't
(10:51):
want the focus to be on you and your career.
But can I just ask you how it would feel for you as a manager,
you know, to be able to win thattrophy and given the fact
Aberdeen haven't won that trophysince 1990, that I wasn't even
born actually. So you know, like you know, how,
how would it feel for you in terms of your career?
I promise you I will show that if that happened on Saturday.
(11:13):
Have you picked your team for Saturday?
We have a clear plan what we going to do, what's.
Your team news. I think it's the same as before.
Everybody is available except Sievet and Esther Socler and
Whitney. 11 Last question and can I ask how Jack Mackenzie is
(11:33):
doing and will he be available for Saturday?
He's. Training on the pitch today and
he was OK and he's he's available for the game on
Saturday. Good luck.
Thank you so much, Jimmy. It's a. 5050 split How important
will the fans be on Saturday andwhat message do you have for the
(11:54):
travel in Aberdeen fans? First of all, I have to thank
them for the this year in the league and and the journey they
have done with us all around thecountry and at home at Pittadry.
They have been massive, well supported the whole, the whole
year and now we do this for thisseason, the last journey
(12:14):
together and it means a lot. And you see how quick we sold
the tickets. So it's really nice to have the
support in this this exciting game on Saturday.
Jimmy on Saturday, will every one of your players have to be
10 out of 10 for you to lift this trophy?
(12:36):
Yeah, it's going to be really strong performance again.
Celtic is a really strong team. They have showed that with the
with the the League Cup and the and the league title.
So, but now we are in the final and we're not going to give in
or give away something. We're going to try the best we
can and and we have a strong belief we can do it.
(12:59):
How? Important is it, despite Celtic
being overwhelming favourites for most people, that that you
go out there as a team and and show not show No Fear.
I think like the the for me it'sthe again, what can we control
in this game? It's we can't control what
Celtic going to do and, and all the thing around we can control
(13:20):
what we going to do, our tactics, our strategy, our
performance, our togetherness, our worth ethic, everything we
can control that's we're going to focus on and and try to do
the best team performance we have done and the best one for
this season and. What will be the?
The the last. Thing you'll say to the players
(13:41):
in the dressing room before theycross that white line.
I have no clue right now. Will it just be go and believe
that you can do? Yeah.
I think the preparation is now and then on Saturday is
Saturday, so I think the the wayto to perform and and try to win
the game has already started. Then on Saturday it's then we
(14:01):
have to be ready. Jimmy, just to go back to Jack
McKenzie, it's great to hear that he physically sounds like
he's doing OK, but how has he been mentally and emotionally
this week after what happened atthe?
Week, I think we have a strong support around the team and good
teammates and and good staff andhe's a strong guy and and he has
(14:22):
been performing well in the sessions.
We tried also to look for forward not looking back and
taking care of him and and so he's he's doing well.
There's been a. Few near messes with similar
incidents across the country. That's you.
Do you think that's particular? One's about about a wake up call
that that more needs to be done to to try and prevent incidents
(14:43):
I think. Like the player safety is always
like in every area where you're working in life, if it's
football or somewhere else, you have to be feel safer at a job
of course, but incidents can happen sometimes in life, in
football, somewhere else and it's not OK because it happened,
but it can happen. But overall you think about the
(15:04):
big picture, all the support we have this year, the Aberdeen
football family, it's incredibleexperience for me to be in
involved with this, this year. All the emotions, the whole
season, the support we have the whole season.
So overall it's amazing club andand supporters and sometimes
(15:25):
incidents can happen. It was not OK.
It could be and even worse what happened, but if you see about
the bigger picture, it's it's been a good year in my opinion,
but we we always have to see it secure that place are safe and,
and, and staff and whatever, wherever you work with, you have
to feel safe at the job. It's an afternoon Aberdeen will
(15:47):
never forget. For the first time in 35 years
Aberdeen have lifted the Scottish cap, repeating history
by beating Celtic on penalties, just as we did back in 1990.
After a brutal 120 minutes of football fell with relentless
Celtic pressure, tactical discipline from the dawns and a
pair of fluke own goals, the final headed to a nerve
shredding shootout. But when it mattered most,
(16:09):
Demeter Mittov stood tall. The Bulgarian keeper became the
Granite Cities hero, saving spotkicks from Callum McGregor and
Alistair Johnston to steal a famous 43 penalty win and deny
Celtic a domestic treble. The match itself was a dramatic
roller coaster. Celtic dominated possession but
couldn't breakdown our stubborn backline.
We fell behind after a cruel owngoal by Alfie Dorrington.
(16:31):
That late drama came courtesy ofshaded Morris who deflected
strike of Casper Schmeichel brought his level with just 8
minutes to play. From there the dead army roared
the side through extra time as chance after chance came and
went for Celtic. Then, in front of Celtic and the
shootout began, he faces Dimitar.
Meet off Celtics captain McGregor saved by Dimitar.
(16:56):
Meet off plus the 2 captains going first.
Shinny this time makes no mistake.
Four final defeats with Aberdeenon his first and only start for
the club against Aberdeen at Pittodrie 11 days ago.
Johnny Kenny sends Neath off thewrong way, Pulvara perfect
(17:17):
penalty and Aberdeen maintain their one goal advantage now.
Luke Mccowan. Mccowan done with poise.
Palestinian delivers for the Dons.
(17:38):
What a penalty that was the outstanding player in Scotland
this season. Dyson Maeda, when he gets it
through the hands of metal and take Palaversa, goes high and
beyond. Michael Aberdeen are a moment
away from history. Alistair Johnson has to score.
(18:02):
It's saved by Dimitar Mittal. It's 1990 all over again.
The check is complete. Aberdeen left the Scottish Cup
and the 35 year wait. The long, long wait is over.
(18:23):
2025 is the year of the underdog.
Aberdeen had to endure so much pressure throughout 120 minutes
against this dominant Celtic side, but they found a way to
get level. They found a way to get to
penalty kicks and this is the stop of legends, the moment of
(18:50):
anticipation almost over as Graham Shinny gets his hands on
the trophy. The. 2025 Scottish Cup winners
are Aberdeen and the Scottish Cup will sparkle at Pittodrie
(19:11):
once again. They dare to dream to to dream
big, and not many gave them a chance today, but they believed
they delivered and three decadesof the weight of success are
released. And as he heard there, Graham
(19:33):
Shenney on his 300th appearance,stepped at 1st and scored middle
of deny McGregor and then did itagain to Johnston with the cap
on the line. With that save Aberdeen secured
our 8th Scottish cap title, our first major honour since 2014,
and clinch guaranteed European group stage football until
Christmas. After being written off all
season, beaten heavily by Celticin previous meetings, this was a
(19:55):
tactical master class and a display of resilience with Telen
becoming the first man to win a trophy for the Dons in over a
decade. The team all heroes on an
afternoon that will live long inAberdeen history.
Let the celebrations begin. First up, you'll be Telen.
Jimmy, you've just won the Scottish Cup with Aberdeen.
How does that feel? You can see the the emotions
(20:17):
from the, our supporters, the supporters the whole season,
everybody around the club, the the players and, and to be a
part of this club and and experience this is, it's so
amazing. Did the game go as you planned?
Was it a game plan to really hitthem in those final minutes?
We have a plan to be really strong in defence today and and
believe in our transitions and the the players fight so hard.
(20:40):
There was the cramp, they were tired but they keep running and
they believe in it and everybody, every player is not
inside the score but everyone here to support the soul.
They were totally amazing to rate the players and the fans.
And heading to penalties, was that something that you thought
about practise all week? We did.
We did actually practise a little bit to to walk it from
the halfway line and be cool, they said.
The players were really, really,really strong today and they
(21:01):
have a strong belief in this. And then finally, just end on a
word for the fans. You can see what it means to
them, but for you personally, what does it mean to bring a
trophy to them at the end of what's been an up and down
season but ultimately ends on a positive note?
I. Think like first of all the cup
today, Brendan Rodgers is amazing managers, he's a strong
team and we have this opportunity to be in a final and
(21:22):
we have to want to take it, takeit.
But it's been amazing, amazing season to be involved and and
and to be in this country to to get this passion about the
football and and of course, to win the truth with the the first
year you arrive here is togetherwith my staff and the place and
everybody is is I'm just relieved and happy now I'm I'm
(21:43):
tired. Well, enjoy the celebrations,
can hear your voices already going.
It's gone. It's gone, so I'm gonna be quiet
tonight. Thank you.
Congratulations. Thank.
You. Thank you.
A young man that showed what he's capable of, Jack Melon
spoke to Rob McLean. Jack.
Third game of the season, third start of the season.
And it wasn't a bad start, was it?
No, it was. Pretty, pretty special.
(22:06):
I found out today that I was, I was going to be starting.
I had an idea this week when we were doing Shape and yeah, like,
I just knew I had to go on and treat it like any other game
and, and do my thing and obviously.
A new defensive structure as well, yeah.
The manager said that pretty early on this week that we're,
we're going to change things slightly and to try and counter,
counter what they were doing. And yeah, we did a lot of work
(22:26):
on it, a lot of shape stuff, tactical and yeah, paid off.
It. Takes a bit of doing beating
Celtic, doesn't it? It does.
Yeah, it's the first time I've beaten Celtic since since I've
been here and we know, we know how good A-Team they are and we
just had to try and do our best to kind of counter what they
were doing. We knew they were going to have
a lot of possession and we were fine with that as long as once
(22:48):
it came in our box or around ourbox, we dealt with it, which we
did. And then you go.
Behind, and that becomes even more difficult.
And it was a kind of freaky goal, wasn't it?
Yeah, it was. It was.
It's not ideal set piece as well, but we knew we were still
in the game. We had to keep it at one nil.
We knew we couldn't, couldn't let our heads go and start
chasing places where we don't need to and leaving gaps and
(23:08):
yeah, keep it at one. No, we knew we still still had a
chance. And then?
Shayden Morris came on and he's the magic man, of course, that's
what he. Does the Super sub.
He's been brilliant and honestlyhis pace is frightening, the
positions he gets himself into is brilliant and he deserves
that goal. A big.
Save by Demi Mitov before I actually went to penalties
one-on-one with Maida. Yeah, that.
Was huge. He just spun in behind it was
(23:31):
one of those. I thought about fouling him, but
I just, I try to leave him and then, yeah, thankfully Demi Demi
bailed me out. You weren't.
Fancing a penalty in the shootout, were you?
No, that's already done that last year and I couldn't knock
it. I was nervous by now it was just
cramped. I would have happily taken 1.
I think it's penalties are scored and missed all the time.
It's all about the courage and the boys that stepped up fair
(23:52):
plate and they were all clinical, calm, composed and
Demi as well was brilliant. How does?
That feel as an achievement. The the best day of my life to
date. It's a dream come true when that
they may save that last penalty I was somehow managed to run
over even though both my caps were going back.
No, it's amazing. A trophy and European group
(24:15):
stage football. I mean, it took me a while to
realise that in the aftermath that was coming as well, yeah.
No, it doesn't get much better than that.
I think that's the best way to do it.
We've always wanted to to win a trophy and it's been a long time
since since we've won the Scottish Cup And yeah, delighted
that we could do it and. Hampton was red.
It was. Yep, and Hampton is red.
(24:35):
Well done. Thank you very.
Much we also caught with under the match mark Canister.
Trying to sum up your feelings post match.
It's hard to describe. I think it needs to still hit as
well. It's it's been a mental game.
We had to defend like crazy. We had a solid block.
(24:56):
So many emotions. Look around, Joe.
It's, it's unbelievable. How did it feel at the end of
those long 120 minutes walking up those steps to finally
receive that medal, with that trophy?
Like deserved. Yeah, I'll play.
Our plan worked right. So you could, you could see us
(25:16):
growing in the game, even thoughwe didn't do much attacking.
We knew Celtic is a good team, you know, So you have to come
with a with a good plan and a good, good team performance.
And yeah, so happy that we that we could do it.
What was that plan against Celtic today?
What did you be set out to do? Well, start with the first with
a solid block in the back. Let them play around us, but not
(25:39):
through US. Stay in the game.
And then believe in those those chances, those transitions.
And yeah, it worked so. And finally.
During the shoot out, what were the nerves like?
Sorry, during the shoot out whatwere the nerves like watching
it? I had confidence in in, in our,
(26:00):
in our guys in, in Demi. So I was confident, but I had to
take the 5th, so I was also happy that we could finish it.
Well, as well as taking that fifth year also today's player
of the match, we've got a special trophy for you.
Congratulations. Thank you, thank you and the.
Celebrations continued through the night and in Aberdeen this
lunchtime and I'm sure there wasa few worse for wear on the open
(26:22):
top best parade as thousands of the Red Army lined the streets
and watched the team make its way down to Aberdeen townhouse.
Led by the Texo D side CaledoniaPipe Band, the players made a
balcony appearance with the Scottish cap and Aberdeen Lord
Prophets Doctor David Cameron. So this music may be familiar.
That's because we're also celebrating and securing a
(26:43):
European windfall worth ÂŁ5 million or more to the club.
After the dramatic penalty shootout at Hampden.
It's sealed a place in the Europa League playoff round.
That means guaranteed group stage football next season.
Even if we lose at the final hurdle, we drop to the
Conference League group stages, guaranteeing European football
until Christmas and a significant financial boost for
(27:04):
the club. It's a blow for Hibs who now
drop down to the second qualifying round of the same
competition while Daddy United and Hed the Conference League
spot. The hangover from the post match
carry on in their final match ofthe season against Dandy.
United continued during the pastweek but thankfully didn't over
(27:27):
shadow the excitement on the build up to the cap and Aberdeen
Mann has appeared in court following the incident last
weekend. 31 year old David Gowans from Aberdeen has been
charged with culpable and reckless conduct after Jack
Mackenzie was struck by a chair on the pitch at Tanadice Park.
Mackenzie was treated on the pitch for a serious facial
injury and taken off in a wheelchair.
Former Dons striker Jay EmmanuelThomas has pleaded guilty to a
(27:50):
major drug smuggling offence involving cannabis.
The 34 year old striker admittedto attempting to import around
ÂŁ600,000 worth of cannabis through Stansted Airport.
Emmanuel Thomas changed his pleaded guilty earlier this
month at Chelmsford Crime Court and reporting restrictions on
the case were lifted on Wednesday.
The offence relates to the fraudulent evasion of the
prohibition on cannabis importation between July and
(28:12):
September last year. National Crime Agency officers
arrested Emmanuel Thomas and Gudik after Border Force
officials seized 2 suitcases containing 60 kilogrammes of the
drag. The luggage had arrived from
Bangkok on September the 2nd. He had initially denied the
charges last October but will now remain in custody ahead of
the sentencing. J Emmanuel Thomas is expected to
(28:32):
be sentenced in person at a later date.
As Aberdeen prepared for this weekend's Scottish Cap final,
chairman Dave Cormac says manager Yamatilin is the man to
bring long term stability and success back to Aberdeen.
After a season filled with apps and downs, the Dons returned to
Hampden for the third time this campaign and Cormac believes the
club is building something solidfor the future.
(28:54):
It's been an erratic but eventful first season in charge
for Yummy Talin, guiding Aberdeen to a fifth place finish
and securing European football once again.
Chairman Dave Cormac is confident the foundations are
being laid for sustained progress.
He says the club has had too many managerial changes in
recent years and what they need now is a longer term plan for
Cormac. Talin will need a couple of
years to shape the squad in a way that truly fits the club's
(29:17):
adopted playing system. Competition in the Premiership
is fiercer than ever. The resurgence of Hearts, Hibbs
and Dundee United has raised thebar but Cormac welcomes the
challenge. He believes the league is more
competitive than it was a decadeago and says it's healthy for
Scottish football. He says being at Hampton
regularly as vital but more importantly the aim is to win
trophies. Cormac believes the club gave
(29:38):
everything last year in the semifinal and credits coach Peter
Levin for helping steer the teamthrough the disappointment.
And the Dons weren't short of support this weekend after the
club ensured the maximum allocation of fans would be in
the stands. Aberdeen originally received
16,800 tickets but Cormac and chief exec Alan Barrows fought
for more. The club committed to covering
any unsold tickets to ensure over 20,000 supporters could
(30:01):
make the trip. The entire allocation sold out
in one day and is out Cormac says justifies their push for a
5050 ticket split for all finals.
Moving forward, he believes bothclubs should always get equal
chance to fill Hampden and say this summer final was never in
doubt in terms of demand. Although he splits time between
Atlanta and Aberdeen, Cormac wasin the stands at Mt Florida with
(30:21):
family from both sides of the Atlantic, including his 95 year
old mother and his grandchildren.
Off the pitch, the signs of progress to Aberdeen are clear
and the next generation is leading the change, but Audrey
has seen a significant increase in crimes this season, with
attendances at by over 30% compared to pre COVID figures.
The average age of fans has dropped from 40 to 35, something
(30:43):
Cormac takes immense pride in. He says when you bring in young
fans, you've got them for life. Initiatives like 3 memberships
for under twelves, fan experience programmes and
affordable pricing for under eighteens have created a strong
growing connection between the club and its supporters.
He recalls his own first time inPittodrie mainstand wasn't
Antalya was 41. Today 12,000 primary school kids
(31:05):
are members of the club. And as he puts it, the old guard
haven't stopped going. It's just that the younger
generation is showing up in bigger numbers than ever.
(31:27):
Let's be honest, this season hadeverything.
A new manager in the deck out, a5th place finish in the league
and European football secured for next season.
The Mittalene's first year in Scottish Rupal has been anything
but quiet. He came in with a clear plan, a
longer term vision for building something solid.
As the curtain falls on another campaign.
I just want to take a moment to say a massive thank you to you,
our amazing listeners, for sticking with us every step of
(31:49):
the way. Whether it's been the highs, the
lows or everything in between, your support has meant the
world. There's been a season of
passion, pride and perseverance.I would be proud to bring you
all the latest from Petaudre andbeyond.
To everyone who tuned in, sharedan episode, sent in messages, or
simply kept the faith, thank you.
You're the heart and soul of this podcast and the Red Army.
We'll be taking a break over thesummer, but we'll be back before
(32:10):
you know it with all the build up to the 202526 season.
Until then, you can keep up to date with the latest summer
signings on our socials, on Facebook X Blue Sky, Mastodon
and Threads. Just search for us at AFC
Donscast and on the website afcdonscast.co.uk.
Till next season, stay safe, enjoy the offseason and as
always, stand free. Red.
(32:51):
Simple colour which means so much everyone knows to who it
belongs. Dots, the famous Aberdeen Ruid
in the northeast, emblem of our city.
Red flag flying high D to the dawn under our granite sky.
Renowned on these shores. Europe knows too, defeating the
(33:13):
best from east to West. Red, not blue, not green.
Everyone has a choice to supporttheir local team.
Do it and you will see and feel what others never do.
Relentless support through ups and downs.
European cities to seaside times, day or night, rain, wind
(33:37):
or hail. Rd.
Rail even. By sea or sky.
Dedication to the cause which money can buy.
Rewarding, sometimes engaging, always dull, never real.
Emotional, dramatic, ready to doit again.
(34:01):
Everyone together, down up torture RE.
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