Turriff United 1–1 Aberdeen (R) | International Club Friendly

Scottish Highland League side Turriff United held Aberdeen’s reserve team to a 1-1 draw in a pre-season friendly played on 8 July 2026. The match, staged at The Haughs in Turriff, gave both sides valuable minutes ahead of their respective competitive campaigns.

Match Summary

Turriff, preparing for the 2026–27 Highland League season, took the lead midway through the first half. Striker Craig Morrison latched onto a through ball and slotted past the Aberdeen reserve goalkeeper in the 28th minute. The Dons reserves responded strongly and equalised before the break, with winger Lewis Clark cutting in from the left and firing home from twelve yards in the 41st minute.

Second Half

Both managers made numerous substitutions in the second half, disrupting the flow of the contest. Turriff almost snatched a winner when substitute Liam Davidson hit the crossbar from a free-kick in the 78th minute. Aberdeen (R) also had chances, but the hosts’ defence held firm to secure a creditable draw.

Pre-season Context

For Turriff United, this friendly formed part of a series of run-outs against higher-level opposition, designed to sharpen match fitness and test squad depth. Aberdeen’s reserve team, competing in the Challenge Cup and SPFL Reserve League, used the fixture to integrate young players and give game time to those returning from injury.

Key Takeaways

• Turriff United showed they could compete physically with a professional club’s development side.
• Craig Morrison’s goal highlighted his finishing ability ahead of the new Highland League season.
• Aberdeen reserves will have learned about their defensive transitions, which were exposed for the opening goal.

The result left both sets of coaching staff satisfied with the workout, as preparations continue for the 2026–27 campaign.