By Kenny MacDonald

GLASGOW (Reuters) - Striker Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink steered Scottish Premier League leaders Celtic to a 1-0 victory at Aberdeen on Saturday.

The Dutchman struck a low first-time shot from 12 metres which flashed under keeper Jamie Langfield in the 78th minute, following a good run and low pass from substitute Kenny Miller.

New signing Thomas Gravesen came close to scoring on his debut after 25 minutes when he was presented with a chance 10 metres out -- only for Aberdeen's Russell Anderson to slide in brilliantly to block as he prepared to pull the trigger.

Seven minutes from the break, Aberdeen striker Lee Miller popped up on the line to clear a looping header after Vennegoor of Hesselink beat Langfield from a free-kick by Japanese midfielder Shunsuke Nakamura.

The second half was a poor affair before 15,304 fans, until Celtic's new striker settled the outcome for the champions.

Celtic top the SPL standings on 13 points from six games, while second-placed Hearts, on 10 points, play later on Saturday at home to newcomers St Mirren. Third-placed Rangers face Falkirk.