Derek McInnes has praised his players for their efforts in the 3-1 defeat to Celtic at Pittodrie with the exception of the the opening minutes that saw them concede three goals in quick succession.

Brendan Rodgers' side made a blistering start to the match with goals from Dedryck Boyata, Stuart Armstrong and Leigh Griffiths in the first 11 minutes before Jonny Hayes scored and Aberdeen settled.

McInnes wasn't happy with the defending that allowed Celtic an easy start but with the sides due to mt again in the Scottish Cup final in two weeks' time, he saw enough from the remainder of the game to feel confident his team can compete at Hampden.

"I was actually pleased with how we started middle to front," he said. "We implemented what we wanted to do. As good as you can be between both boxes, you still have to defend.

"We were on the ropes, and we really needed an adrenaline hit. Jonny Hayes gave us that. I thought the better players tonight had red shirts on, but Jonny was the best of the lot. The crowd needed a lift and the players needed some inspiration.

"What a goal he scored. It was top class, a really calm finish, and from then on in I thought we had the better chances.

"I'm not here for glorious failure, but I recognise the performance from the team. We wanted the result tonight, but the performance was what I was more keen to see. Celtic needed to know that in two weeks' time they'll face a confident Aberdeen team, and that's exactly what we'll be."

However, McInnes did feel that Aberdeen should have had an opportunity from the penalty spot after a Craig Gordon challenge on Graeme Shinnie.

"It's a penalty kick," he said. "It's a foul any day of the week anywhere else on the pitch.

"Gordon's hesitant coming off his line, Shinnie's determination gets him the ball, and he gets clattered. I don't think it's a red card, but it is a penalty."