#premier-sports-cup

#premier-sports-cup

A long weekend of Premier Sports Cup action is in prospect and, for some, there is more than just a semi-final place at stake. Rangers head coach Russell Martin, in particular, and Aberdeen counterpart Jimmy Thelin both desperately need a change in fortunes. And Celtic's hierarchy would find themselves facing renewed criticism should Brendan Rodgers' holders and Scottish Premiership leaders slip up against second-tier Partick Thistle. Here's what to look out for over the next three days.

During a break in play after Jordan Obita's red card, Elie Youan proceeds to show off his keepie-uppie skills at the opposite end of the pitch. A moment that would be lambasted by John McGinn, Michael Stewart and Marvin Bartley, the former Hibs trio suggested it typified a care-free attitude in David Gray's side, who went on to capitulate in a 4-1 defeat at Dens Park.

We're disappointed with the result - I'm not going to try and diminish the performance and the disappointment - because we set ourselves up to try and be a good cup team this season. We lost to a team who finished above us last year, on penalties. We were the better team for 75 minutes, I felt. I'm disappointed we didn't forced the issue and get the winning goal before we got to penalties.

Dundee achieved their first victory under manager Steven Pressley with a 3-1 win over Bonnyrigg Rose, although they faced challenges throughout the match.

Derek McInnes smiled after his first game as Hearts head coach, securing a 4-1 win, but acknowledged the team lacked killer instinct in the second half.