THE RED ARMY

Lyall gets warm welcome and returns the favour with classy show as Dons edge out Rovers

- SCOTT BURNS AT PITTODRIE

PETER LEVEN praised Lyall Cameron for making an instant impact in Aberdeen's Scottish Cup win.

The new boy arrived in a controversial loan signing from Rangers last week.

A lot of the Red Army were frustrated there was no option to buy and they're developing a player for another club.

Leven was just delighted to get him onboard and reckons the midfielder showed his quality in the win over Raith Rovers that earned another home tie against Motherwell.

Cameron put in the corner from which Jack Milne netted the winner, his first goal for Aberdeen.

Dougie Imrie's Rovers put on a brave performance and on another day could well have caused an upset. They bowed out with their heads held high. Aberdeen are now into the fifth round looking to keep a hold of the trophy they lifted under Jimmy Thelin last season.

And interim boss Leven said: "It was brilliant from the fans as I saw them clapping Lyall when he was taking corners.

"His delivery from set-pieces was amazing and you can see his quality when picking up in areas. Lyall will get even better with the more minutes he gets but I thought he was outstanding"

Leven had no involvement in the transfer negotiations. Aberdeen tried to make it a permanent deal but Rangers would only entertain a loan.

The Ibrox club also have an issue as they can't agree a fee. A tribunal has still to set the fee for Cameron's summer move from Dundee.

Leven spoke to Cameron, who made it clear - despite having other options - he wanted the move to Aberdeen.