Real Sociedad vs Aberdeen: Derek McInnes challenges his side to cause more problems for Sociedad with faint hopes remaining

McInnes looked on as a superior Sociedad side claimed a 2-0 first leg victory in their Europa League third qualifying round

Dereck McInnes gestures from the sidelines during Aberdeen's 2-0 loss to Real Sociedad (Getty Images)

Aberdeen boss Derek McInnes refused to give up on the Europa League after his side's 2-0 defeat by Real Sociedad in the first leg of their third qualifying round in San Sebastian.

The Dons started the match well and defended stubbornly in a goalless first half which was characterised by some wayward shooting by the home side.

Midfielder David Zurutuza, however, broke through the red resistance in the 53rd minute before substitute Sergio Canales doubled that lead with a drive in the 68th minute and it might have been worse had Granite City keeper Jamie Langfield not made a save from substitute Imanol Agirretxe, who then missed another chance right at the end.

The woodwork also saved McInnes's side from leaving Spain with a bigger mountain to climb next week.

However, the Dons boss appeared defiant in his post-match press conference, saying: " It's been tough against a good team.

"We did well at the start, but then they've dominated completely. We need to learn from what happened tonight.

"Next week we will have to go out and attack, to score a goal. We won't give up.

"Next Thursday we will go out in front of our fans, who today have given us a lot of support, and we hope to give them something to cheer.

"There are 90 minutes left, it will be difficult. It's a challenge and we hope to be stronger and cause Real more problems."

Sociedad boss Jagoba Arrasate would have been happier if a third goal had been scored but was pleased enough with the lead they will take to Aberdeen.

He said: "It's a good result but seeing how the game went it could've been bigger.

""We've missed chances, the third goal to increase the advantage, but the feelings are positive.

"There (Pittodrie) we need to do things well and go out to win."

PA