Aberdeen boss Derek McInnes is looking for his side to push on and secure a second-place finish in the Scottish Premiership.

His side moved ahead of Rangers thanks to a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Partick Thistle at Pittodrie.

Goals from substitutes Jayden Stockley and Ryan Christie earned the points for the Dons, and McInnes admits his side are in a battle to secure the runners-up spot.

He said "There's still a lot of football to play, but we recognise we're in a fight.

"There's still a lot of football to play, but the league table is probably what we thought it would be like. Celtic were going to be ahead of others if they played to their potential.

"There's no real surprises. We always felt we were going to be competitive, and as long as we're there in 15 games time, that's all I'm concerned about.

"A lot of our players are playing, individually, well, but I'm fortunate I've got different players available to suit what's needed.

"We've a settled team, but it's important to stress the ability and capability of the rest of the squad because they're team players but they're itching to play their part."

Partick Thistle assistant manager Scott Paterson is backing striker Ade Azeez to get on the goal trail after the hitman passed up a golden opportunity to earn his side a point.

He said: "If he'd scored, the game would open up even more and it might have played into our hands, but we can't get to the end of the season and look at the chances we've not taken.

"Ade will keep going. He's a striker, and they're judged on goals.

"He's just got to keep going, stay confident. He works very hard in training and defences are scared of him because of his pace and power. It's up to him to take his chances."