Aberdeen fans ready to celebrate with Scottish Cup parade

Published 9 hours ago• 3 minute read

at Hampden on Saturday, to claim the trophy for the first time in 35 years.

Tens of thousands of red-clad fans lined the streets at noon to see the players on an open-top bus the city centre.

The victory gives manager Jimmy Thelin silverware in his first season in charge of the club.

PA Media A large crowd of football fans wearing red in front of granite buildings and a blue sky,

Fans packed Aberdeen's Union street for the bus parade

SNS Fans crowd around a red bus with football players on top holding a trophy — Fans packed Aberdeen's Union street for the bus parade

Fans watched the bus go down Union Street, along Union Terrace and Schoolhill, before making its way onto Broad Street.

Chris Nicholl, 30, who was at the game, told BBC Scotland News the experience was "amazing".

"It was 35 years of emotion held in for my dad," he said.

His wife Leah, also 30, added: "He didn't even cry for our wedding!"

Chris and Leah Nichol said Aberdeen's win was "amazing"

A man and woman in aberdeen hats, holding a scarf out in front of a bus. — Chris and Leah Nichol said Aberdeen's win was "amazing"

Grace, two, was among those enjoying the parade atmosphere along the route

Young girl dressed in red with other family members also in red, all smiling. — Grace, two, was among those enjoying the parade atmosphere along the route

The bus arrived at Aberdeen's Town House, where the team were welcomed by Lord Provost David Cameron for a civic reception.

"On behalf of the city of Aberdeen, I offer my warmest congratulations to Aberdeen FC on their Scottish Cup Final triumph against Celtic," he said.

"This is a fantastic achievement not only for the football club but for our entire city.

"It was great to see thousands of Aberdeen fans descend on Hampden Park, a day which I'm sure will live long in the memory of Dons fans."

Aberdeen claimed the trophy for the first time in 35 years

Aberdeen FC Aberdeen players celebrating with trophy. — Aberdeen claimed the trophy for the first time in 35 years

Aberdeen earned the sensational win as keeper Dimitar Mitov's penalty shootout saves against Callum McGregor and Alistair Johnston saw them come from behind at Hampden to deny Celtic a treble.

Alfie Dorrington's own goal had put Celtic ahead after the Glasgow side controlled the first half.

But Aberdeen were rewarded after 83 minutes when substitute Shayden Morris saw his cross diverted into the net by Celtic goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel.

After extra-time, Celtic captain McGregor had his opening penalty saved by Mitov, then Aberdeen scored four fine spot-kicks before their goalkeeper pushed away Johnston's effort and ensure his place as a Pittodrie legend.