Sigma Olomouc v Aberdeen preview

Dons look to restore some pride

Last updated: 6th August 2009

Sigma Olomouc v Aberdeen preview

McGhee: Wants improvement

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Aberdeen will be playing for pride in their Europa League tie against Sigma Olomouc on Thursday.

The Dons were thumped 5-1 at Pittodrie in the first leg of the third qualifying round fixture in Mark McGhee's first game as manager.

Only a miraculous turnaround against the Czech outfit can save McGhee's side, who will be without injured players Zander Diamond, Tommy Wright, Peter Pawlett and Bert Bossu.

Defender Charlie Mulgrew scored a consolation goal with a superb free-kick in the first leg, and travelling Dons fans will be hoping for something similar to cheer about in the Andruv Stadium.

Heavy deficit

But with five away goals already stacked against them, McGhee will be hoping his team can at least gain some match fitness in the build-up to their first SPL game against Celtic.

"I will never forget that is what happened in my first game," he told the official website.

"However, you have to play again. You have to get back on your bike. We are going to give it a go - I think there is a lot to play for.

"It is about pride but it is also using the game as preparation for the Celtic match. There is an opportunity to put some of the damage from last Thursday right."