Aberdeen’s hopes of European progression were all but ended with a disappointing draw against unheralded Armenian side FC Noah in the Conference League.
After four games the Scottish Cup winners have just two points and lie in 33rd spot, with their final two matches come against pre-tournament favourites Strasbourg and Czech side Sparta Prague.
This was arguably their best chance for a crucial three points and Jimmy Thelin acknowledged as much pre-match, calling it a “must-win” game.
At the half-time whistle, the victory looked on. At the end of a forgettable first-half, Kevin Nisbet swivelled and fired Aberdeen into the lead after hard work from Topi Keskinen set up the chance.
That did not last long.
Noah had barely threatened in the opening stages but they enjoyed large spells in the second half after scoring quickly through Nardin Mulahusejnovic’s fantastic header.
That sucked any life out of Pittodrie, and at times Noah dominated the ball but struggled to create clear-cut chances.
Instead, the best opportunity to win it came to Aberdeen through substitute Nicolas Milanovic, but the Australian could only find the side netting when one-on-one.
Aberdeen, with a goal difference of minus seven, now lie three points adrift of a play-off position going into the final two games.
