Aberdeen fans ready to celebrate with Scottish Cup parade | UK News

Thousands of Aberdeen fans will gather later to see the club parade the Scottish Cup through the city after their win over Celtic.

The Dons won a dramatic penalty shoot-out 4-3 at Hampden on Saturday, to claim the trophy for the first time in 35 years.

The Aberdeen players will be on an open top bus to take the Scottish Cup through the city centre at noon.

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

The parade will make its way down Union Street, along Union Terrace and Schoolhill before making its way onto Broad Street.

It will arrive at the Town House, where the team will be 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 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.

The win was especially sweet for a father and son who travelled from Australia to support Aberdeen.

Allan McCarlie, 51, and his 18-year-old son Jamie flew more than 10,000 miles (16,000km) from Sydney for the match on Saturday.

The admitted beforehand people thought they were making a pointless long journey as Celtic were heavy favourites.

“I was told I was mad,” Allan said afterwards. “Spending so much money to travel from Sydney to attend the Cup Final.

“But (now) I am the richest man in the world – priceless memories.”