For the past few days, and even in the minutes leading up to kick-off of this match between Aberdeen and Hibs, it was all about the Gothenburg Greats and the Dons’ European glory 40 years ago.

Behind one goal a massive banner was unfurled, stating “Heroes” with a picture of the men who defeated Real Madrid in that European Cup Winners' Cup, while at the other end a tifo display decorated the top tier of the Dick Donald Stand in red and white stripes, while the lower tier highlighted 1983, the year of the club’s greatest triumph. On the pitch, the living legends were paraded as older fans took a trip down memory lane and younger supporters marvelled that there had once been a period in time when their team could humble La Liga’s finest, let alone on a major stage.

For all the euphoric preamble, and the razzamatazz, when this game got under way there were two present day sides with their own pressing European concerns. Third-placed Aberdeen started the day six points ahead of their opponents in the Premiership, and five clear of nearest challengers Hearts in the battle for a top-three finish and near-guaranteed Europa League or Conference League group stage football next term. The fact that they dug in to see out the head-to-head with Hibs 0-0 on such a high octane afternoon, while the Gorgie side could only draw with St Mirren ensured they ended the day with the same advantage.

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