Ayr United manager Scott Brown before the Scottish Gas Scottish Cup fifth round match at the Ibrox Stadium, Glasgow. Picture date: Saturday February 10, 2024. PA Photo. See PA story SOCCER Rangers. Photo credit should read: Steve Welsh/PA (Image: Steve Welsh)
Ayr United earned a narrow victory over fellow Championship side Falkirk to kick off their Premier Sports Cup campaign with three points.
The Honest Men took the lead at Somerset Park after just five minutes, Anton Dowds heading home a Paddy Reading cross.
Falkirk had more shots on the goal of United keeper Harry Stone for the remainder of the match, but Ayr saw out the 90 minutes for a crucial three points.
Elsewhere in Ayr's Group B, Dundee United were 3-0 winners at home to Stenhousemuir, with Buckie Thistle not playing in this round of fixtures.
Ayr take on Dundee United on Saturday, in what could be a vital game to decide who comes out on top and progresses into the knockout phase.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here