From a player who appeared completely devoid of confidence, Yengi looked a different proposition, and as well as the improvement in his attacking play, he also put a shift in for his side.
“I’m really happy with his work for the team,” said Sivert Heltne Nilsen, who set the Dons on their way with the opening goal.
“He did really well in the pressing and hard work. If everyone is doing like Kusini did, the goals and the results will come for the whole team.
“He did a really professional performance and I’m so happy for him to also get a goal.”
Of course one good performance against a Championship side who, as their manager Dougie Imrie admitted, showed far too much respect to Aberdeen is not enough to convince that the Scottish Cup holders have turned the corner, it is at least a step in the right direction.
“I’m happy how we attacked them today,” Thelin added.
“It was more clear. I think the players got better and better timing with each other. And when the timing is there, it’s easier to play football.”
The acid test of Yengi – and the Dons – will come against FCSB, formerly known as Steaua Bucharest, in the looming double-header.
The Romanians head to Pittodrie on Thursday and Aberdeen have postponed next weekend’s league game with Dundee United before the return leg.
Thelin’s side are guaranteed European football but the prestige and money of the Europa League trumps the Conference League, where they will parachute into if beaten by FCSB.
“Now I can switch my head all over to Steaua Bucharest,” Nilsen said.
“It’s going to be amazing to play a European game at Pittodrie. It’s like a dream come true to play in a Europa League play-off.
“I think we have a good chance and we’ll do everything to get into the Europa League.”
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