Interim Aberdeen boss Peter Leven has challenged his players to turn promising moments into decisive action as the Dons prepare for Sunday’s home fixture, insisting the squad has the quality – but must improve their decision-making under pressure.
Speaking to the media ahead of the match, Leven, a former Rangers player, was clear that Aberdeen have been creating enough chances, but a lack of composure in key moments has been holding them back.
“There’s talented players here, it’s just I’ve got to find a way to get it out of them,” he said.
“It’s that decision-making under pressure and at the right moments.
“We could have scored two in the first half and could have scored two in the second half – and they’re good chances to take.”
The Dons recent performances have shown encouraging signs in terms of build-up play and attacking intent, but the final product has too often been missing.
Leven believes the key now is ensuring Aberdeen continue to put themselves in the right areas to convert those opportunities.
“But again, we’ve got to put ourselves in those positions on Sunday to have the opportunity to score,” he added.
Sunday’s match at Pittodrie offers Aberdeen the chance to build on the momentum generated by last week’s change in management and an airing of grievances between players and staff post-match at Ibrox on Tuesday.
He expects the home crowd to play a positive role in driving the team forward.
“That is the big difference,” he explained.
“You are at home, there will be a great crowd, the crowd will be warm, there’s not going to be any tension in the air because that bubble was burst at the weekend.”
Leven believes the release of pressure could be exactly what his players need to perform with greater freedom and confidence.
“That could be that platform that we need,” he said.
The interim boss has repeatedly highlighted the importance of belief, both in the dressing room and from the stands, as a vital ingredient for progress.
The Pittodrie crowd, often described as demanding but loyal, could prove crucial in helping the players express themselves without fear.
Rangers need to remain composed and assured, as they did on Tuesday to secure back-to-back wins and back-to-back three points against Aberdeen and keep themselves on track in the title race.