Kilmarnock: Allan Johnston upbeat despite defeat at Aberdeen

Allan Johnston had no complaints over the result following defeat by Aberdeen in his first competitive match in charge of Kilmarnock.

Trailing the Dons 2-0, Kris Boyd reduced the deficit but the visitors could not find an equaliser.

Prior to kick-off, Johnston added to his squad by signing Kyle Jacobs.

"Aberdeen deserved the win, they dominated good bits of the game and I was pleased with the reaction in the second half," Johnston said.

"We created a few chances but it was just a bit too open for my liking."

Kilmarnock improved after the break, with substitute Boyd proving a thorn in Aberdeen's side.

"Kris is a natural finisher and he showed that today, he was unlucky not to score a second," said the Kilmarnock boss.

Johnston conceded that Aberdeen's movement caused his side problems.

"But you'll learn after playing opposition like that. We were pushing on at the very end. Some of our defending has to be improved.

"The way we came back in the second half, the Aberdeen supporters became very quiet.

"We put a wee bit of pressure on them and I'm just disappointed we didn't get another goal.

"We should've have defended better at both goals and we know we can improve."

Former Livingston player Jacobs, who has signed until January, gives Johnston a further option in midfield.