Do Aberdeen have a creativity problem?
The stats behind the Dons’ start to the Premiership season flag up some attacking concerns.
The 48 chances created by Stephen Robinson’s side is the lowest tally in the division – same for their 37 chances from open play – while they have the fewest shots on target (18) and second-fewest shots (70).
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It must be noted Aberdeen haven’t had the kindest fixtures, with Robinson keen to point out they have faced five of last season’s top-six teams in their opening seven games.
Eight points have been accrued, leaving the Dons seventh in a congested table and just two points shy of fourth, so there’s no reason for panic.
Still, the Pittodrie side have netted just seven league goals – only bottom two Falkirk and Kilmarnock have scored fewer – and their xG (expected goals) is a league-low 7.16, suggesting opportunities have not exactly been flowing.
That is backed up by what Opta terms ‘big chances’ – the Dons’ tally of nine is above only Falkirk, and their 137 touches in the opposition box is the third fewest.
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Robinson’s Aberdeen are not a ball-dominant team – their average possession 45.09% ranks 10th in the top flight – but they do possess a prowess at set-pieces. They have scored three goals and created 11 chances – the third-highest in the league – from dead balls.
And if the Dons could become more productive, they have a striker capable of profiting. Kevin Nisbet has netted 43% of the team’s league goals – three of seven – from just four shots on target and also weighed in with two assists.
Dons fans, what do you make of the attacking threat in Robinson’s side? Share your views here.
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