Partick Thistle 0 - 0 Aberdeen

Waddell Almost Unbeatable: Hamilton Was Most Skilful Forward

IT was football without finesse at Firhill on Saturday. Skilful play, like goals, was at a premium.
All attempts by the forwards to develop a constructive game were systematically stifled by quick, hard and relentless tackling by the defences.

The goalless draw provided a welcome break in the Pittodrie clouds. Let's hope it injects the Dons with fresh hope and contidence.
Like Aberdeen, Partick Thistle are groping for a way of escape from the bottom of the League table. It was a case of two teams with a fear complex - fear of defeat.
Yet, spite of the destructive tactics of the respective backs and half backs, goals should have been scored. If Partick had more opportunities than Aberdeen, the Pittodrie attackers said no to the better chances.
There were three in particular - two in the first half and one in the second.
Williams was first to refuse the glory of a goal. When Hamilton crossed from the right the ball dropped over Forsyth's head to the centre's feet. He faltered in bringing the ball under control and eventually Millar ran forward to send over from close range.

Millar at Fault

Millar was the second sinner. A cute ground pass by Hamilton cut open the Partrick Thistle defence. The right winger was left with a clear road to goal, but he delayed his shot and Pirrie saw to it that got no second chance.
It was in the second half that Hamilton might have claimed the winning goal. A run and cross by Millar saw Hamilton try to place the ball with his head, but Henderson got cross in time to intercept at the post.
The weaknesses haven't been eliminated from the Aberdeen defence, but the players certainly introduced more power into their tackling, and the general covering up was an improvement.
There were five Aberdeen players at Firhill whose form deserved special mention.
Ace personality in defence was Waddell at centre half. He was practically unbeatable.

Hamilton Excels

Massie was the more capable back, and Hamilton was the one forward who succeeded in inserting any real culture into the play. Harris was the only other Pittodrie forward who could claim a pass mark.
Neither Pearson nor Williams threatened to do any damage. Millar must be given credit for eagerness to have a go, but his shooting was wild and reckless.
Partick Thistle have their troubles. McGowan gave a sound display at back and Forsyth (formerly of Ross County) was a reliable centre half.
The best of the forwards were Mackenzie and Kinnell on the right wing. O'Donnell, McCallum and Walker made a switch in the second half, but it failed to produce tangible result.

Source: Press & Journal, 15th November 1948,/p>