Exclusive: Graeme Shinnie Reveals Aberdeen’s Half-Time Team Talk That Sparked Heroic Celtic Fightback
Aberdeen’s dramatic comeback against Celtic at Parkhead was sparked by a calming half-time team talk from manager Jimmy Thelin, according to Dons skipper Graeme Shinnie. Trailing 2-0 at the break, Thelin’s words of encouragement and tactical adjustments inspired a stunning second-half revival.
Shinnie lifted the lid on the key interval moments, saying: “It’s a mix of everything. Everyone’s chatting at half-time. Everyone’s emotions are high, but we calmed it down, we spoke, and we galvanized. We came out a lot better in the second half.”
Thelin’s composed demeanor played a significant role in Aberdeen’s transformation. Shinnie praised his manager’s level-headed approach, saying: “He’s very calm. He doesn’t let the emotion of the game take over his decisions. He tries to stay calm so he can make the right decisions, which is important.”
The Dons’ unbeaten run under Thelin continued, thanks to their second-half resurgence. Jamie McGrath’s magical delivery set up Ester Sokler’s lifeline goal, and Shayden Morris and Topi Keskinen tested Celtic’s defense. Shinnie’s deflected strike leveled the score, sending the away fans into raptures.
Despite VAR’s intervention to disallow Slobodan Rubezic’s header due to handball, Aberdeen held on for a valuable point. Shinnie acknowledged the team’s tiredness towards the end but praised their resilience.3xv
Thelin’s impact on Aberdeen is evident, with the team displaying unity and courage in the face of adversity. Shinnie’s comments highlight the manager’s influence on the team’s mentality and tactics.
As the SPFL season unfolds, Aberdeen’s resilience and counter-attacking style will pose a significant threat to their opponents. Thelin’s calm and calculated approach has instilled confidence in his players, and the Dons will be a force to be reckoned with in the title race.
Aberdeen’s heroic defense, coupled with Dimitar Mitov’s brilliant save and Duk’s goalline block, secured a hard-fought point. The draw maintains Aberdeen’s unbeaten record under Thelin and sets the stage for an intriguing title race.
The Dons’ ability to adapt and overcome adversity has sent a warning to the rest of the league. With Thelin at the helm, Aberdeen is capable of challenging for the top spot.