Aberdeen vs Rangers: Scottish Premiership – BBC Sport

Jimmy Thelin’s unbeaten Aberdeen made their biggest statement yet by intensifying the pressure on Rangers manager Philippe Clement with an enthralling Scottish Premiership victory.

The pre-match show at Pittodrie set the tone for a raucous occasion, which the away side were overwhelmed by in a sobering opening period as Nicky Devlin continued his dream season by lashing the intense hosts into the lead.

A three-goal half-time advantage would not have flattered the Dons, who struck the woodwork through Graeme Shinnie and Jamie McGrath had his weak spot kick saved by goalkeeper Jack Butland.

It seemed Aberdeen would pay the price for that wastefulness as Rangers had a Ross McCausland goal disallowed for a narrow offside call before they roared back after the break and deservedly levelled through Nedim Bajrami’s fine solo effort.

But the hosts, with a sell-out home crowd backing them, regained the lead as substitute Shayden Morris smashed in on the rebound to move Thelin’s men nine points clear of Clement’s side after just 10 games.

The Ibrox club are now also clawing back the same deficit on city rivals Celtic, who remain level on points with the Dons at the summit.

Despite a remarkable record-breaking start to the campaign, Thelin remained coy on his side being involved in a potential Premiership title race.

“No, it’s still early,” he told BBC Scotland. “We know that. We have to stay focused. We still have to improve things and we know it’s a long season.”