Aberdeen aims to end winless streak against Hibs while addressing late-game chaos.
Aberdeen’s midfielder, Sivert Heltne Nilsen, has issued a clarion call for his team to eliminate the “chaotic” tendencies that have plagued their late-game performances. As the Dons prepare to face Hibernian at Pittodrie this Saturday, the urgency to break a five-game winless streak is palpable.
Nilsen’s insights come after a particularly painful 3-3 draw against Hibs last month, where Aberdeen squandered a lead in the dying moments of the match.
Learning from past mistakes
Nilsen reflected on the recent match against Hibs, where a last-minute equalizer left the team reeling.
“Conceding a goal six minutes into stoppage time was a hammer blow,” he admitted. This incident, he believes, is symptomatic of a broader issue within the team. Despite a strong start to the season, where Aberdeen went unbeaten in their first 11 matches, Nilsen noted that the team has struggled to maintain composure when taking the lead late in games.
“Football is unpredictable, and you must know how to react and stay focused until the final whistle,” Nilsen stated. He pointed out that the team has often found themselves in disarray immediately after scoring, allowing opponents to capitalize on their lack of concentration. This was evident in their previous encounter with Motherwell, where Aberdeen nearly conceded another goal shortly after taking the lead.
Addressing the chaos
Aberdeen’s coaching staff, led by manager Jimmy Thelin, has recognized this issue and is actively working to instill a sense of control during critical moments. Nilsen emphasized the importance of maintaining focus, especially in the final minutes of a match. “We can be more controlled in the future,” he asserted, indicating a commitment to improving their late-game strategy.
The midfielder’s experience in high-pressure situations has shaped his understanding of the game. He acknowledged that while the team has faced challenges, they must learn to manage their emotions and maintain composure when it matters most. This mindset will be crucial as they aim to secure a much-needed victory against Hibs.
A personal connection to Aberdeen
Nilsen’s journey to Aberdeen has been marked by a deep appreciation for the club and its passionate fanbase. Having signed from SK Brann for £300,000, he has quickly become an integral part of the team, starting 21 games since his arrival. “As a kid, I always dreamed about playing in this culture,” he shared. The midfielder expressed his admiration for the fervor with which the people of Aberdeen support their football club, stating, “It is amazing to see that passion for football. I get goosebumps when I talk about this, because football is a really important thing in my life.”
As he prepares to take the field against Hibs, Nilsen carries not just the weight of expectation but also a black left eye, a testament to the unpredictable nature of life both on and off the pitch. “It’s a crazy story actually – my son accidentally hit me while playing at home,” he recounted with a smile. Despite the minor injury, his focus remains on helping Aberdeen turn their fortunes around and reclaim their position in the Premiership.
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