Aberdeen seeks to secure a top-three finish in the Scottish Premiership before the split.
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As the Scottish Premiership season approaches its critical juncture, Aberdeen finds itself in a tight race for a coveted third-place finish. Currently sitting just one point behind Hibernian, the Dons are gearing up for a crucial series of matches that could define their season.
With only eight games remaining, every point counts as they strive to secure a position that could lead to European competition next year.
The significance of the upcoming fixtures
Former Aberdeen player Steve Tosh emphasizes the importance of the next three matches before the split.
He believes that these games will be pivotal for the team’s aspirations. “I think you want to be going into the split in third position,” Tosh stated, highlighting the competitive nature of the league. The Dons will face formidable opponents, and accumulating points now is essential for maintaining momentum.
Current standings and competition
The race for European spots is heating up, with Aberdeen, Hibernian, Dundee United, and Hearts all within a five-point margin. This tight competition means that the Dons must capitalize on their opportunities. Tosh predicts that the current top six teams will remain in contention after the split, making it crucial for Aberdeen to secure their place among them. “For a team to miss out, they’d probably need to lose their remaining three games before the split,” he noted, indicating the high stakes involved.
Challenges ahead for Aberdeen
Aberdeen’s journey to a top-three finish will not be without challenges. Their upcoming fixtures include a match against Motherwell, who are currently positioned just below the top six. Tosh identifies the away game against Ross County as particularly daunting, given that the Staggies are fighting to avoid relegation. “The bottom line is Ross County are fighting for their lives,” he remarked, underscoring the pressure both teams will face.
Expectations and potential outcomes
Despite a rocky middle phase of the season, Aberdeen’s early performance had raised expectations. With 31 points from their first 11 games, the Dons seemed poised for a strong finish. However, the subsequent dip in form has led to a reassessment of what constitutes a successful season. Tosh believes that finishing fourth would be disappointing, given the promising start. “If they were to miss out, that would then end up being a disaster of a season after the start they made,” he stated, reflecting the high hopes surrounding the team.
Looking forward
As Aberdeen prepares for the final stretch of the season, the focus is on securing a top-three finish and making a deep run in the Scottish Cup. The upcoming matches will be crucial not only for league standings but also for the morale of the team. “If they finish third and get to the final, it’s been a good season,” Tosh concluded, emphasizing the fine line between success and disappointment in football.
