Seven of Nine

The Dons are now seven points from nine after winning a game they just shaded. The game was a snapshot of a typical Aberdeen win this season - long periods of being second best, nicking a goal and defending resolutely with the fans biting their nails until the final whistle.

The opening period of the game was a reminder of why a number of Aberdeen fans are sceptical about the current management. A team put together with little or no resources played us off the park with some excellent football, while we failed to string two passes together. Mehdi Taouil and David Fernandez were brilliant to watch, and we were chasing shadows. However, after the first 20 minutes, we began to find our feet and Miller missed an excellent chance shortly before half time.

For all Calderwood is criticised for tactics, credit must go to his second half switch. Miller ploughed a lone furrow through the middle, Mackie pulled right and Aluko left. This allowed Aluko in particular to stretch the Killie defence, and keep their full backs on the back foot. It was no surprise when Aluko scored, audaciously taking on a shot from a tight angle. His good form since his return north has definitely deserved a goal, as he's been by far our most entertaining player...addmittedly not something which has been too difficult.

After that, nerves set in and although the team defended diligently, it was nerve-racking to watch, particularly when Donovan Simmons smacked one off the underside of the bar. In fairness, though, Killie had few other chances despite their increased possession and territorial advantage. While it was great to win, 40 minutes of watching us sit deeper and deeper doesn't make for a pleasant afternoon, and it is no surprise that we haven't beaten a team by more than one goal this season.

Next weekend is the acid test of whether we're back to form...United away. This fixture has been traumatic in the last few years, save for a brilliant cup comeback a few years ago. Last season United beat us in the last minute, thrashed us in the other game at Tannadice when Langfield smacked it off Hunt and we missed a pen, and embarrassed us at Tynecastle. The usual big support will travel south, and an overdue win would demonstrate our credentials for third place.