Aberdeen set up a Europa League tie with Portuguese giants Sporting CP by edging out FK Viking in their second qualifying round match in Stavanger.

In an open game the Norwegian hosts posed a threat, but Ryan Hedges’ goal directly from a corner sealed victory.

Their reward is a trip to Lisbon to play for a spot in the play-off round.

Viking, who sit eighth in the Norwegian top flight after 17 games, had averaged three goals per game in a five-match unbeaten run domestically, while also conceding plenty at the other end.

It was little surprise then, that they looked to get forward whenever possible while frequently leaving gaps for Aberdeen to exploit.

Marley Watkins headed just over after four minutes, and Scott Wright was denied by the foot of Viking goalkeeper Iven Autsbo when played clean through by Hedges.

McCrorie’s hit on the half volley into the bottom corner just a minute before the break was the perfect boost for the visitors as they headed for the dressing room, and they were made to wait for confirmation as referee Filip Glova and his assistant assessed whether Andrew Considine had obstructed Austbo’s line of sight from an offside position.

Viking themselves carved open several good opportunities to score. Ylldren Ibrahimaj headed well over from just four yards out in the first-half, while Veton Berisha flashed a low shot inches past a post after the break and was also prevented from tapping home by a lunging Considine.

But just as the home side looked increasingly menacing, Aberdeen managed to counter-attack and win a corner, from which Hedges remarkably curled the ball around Austbo and into the net to ease any late nerves.

More to follow.