Motherwell advance as Cup groups heat up

Dundee finally secured their first victory under manager Steven Pressley with a hard-fought 3-1 Premier Sports Cup win against Lowland League side Bonnyrigg Rose. The Scottish Premiership club had faced criticism following disappointing defeats to Airdrieonians and Alloa Athletic that left their knockout stage hopes hanging by a thread.

The match saw Clark Robertson open the scoring in the 20th minute, only for Cameron Ross to equalize before halftime. Despite Bonnyrigg's resilient defense, late goals from Emile Acquah and Billy Koumetio ultimately sealed the victory for Dundee.

With Alloa Athletic leading Group C with nine points, Dundee's fate now depends on Airdrieonians' Wednesday match against Montrose. The Dark Blues conclude their group stage campaign at home to Montrose on Saturday.

Other Group Stage Highlights

Group A: Falkirk Take Top Spot

Falkirk moved to the summit with a 3-1 comeback win against Queen's Park, featuring goals from Ethan Ross (2) and Brian Graham. Meanwhile, Cove Rangers kept pace with a 3-0 victory over Brechin City, setting up an exciting final matchday where Falkirk face Spartans and Cove visit Queen's Park.

Group B: Tight Title Race

Partick Thistle maintained their lead with a 2-0 win over Queen of the South, but Ross County kept pressure with an 8-0 demolition of Edinburgh City. The group will be decided when these two sides meet in Dingwall on Saturday.

Group D: Ayr United Dominate

Ayr United continued their perfect start with a comprehensive 3-0 win over Forfar Athletic. Arbroath also impressed with a 6-0 thrashing of Annan Athletic, but Ayr need just a point against St Mirren to secure top spot.

Group E: Dunfermline Edge Hamilton

Dunfermline Athletic claimed a crucial 2-1 victory against Hamilton Academical, with Andrew Tod and an own goal from Lee Kilday proving decisive.

Group F: Goal Fest

Inverness CT ended East Kilbride's winning streak with a 6-2 victory, while St Johnstone maintained their perfect record with a 3-1 win over Raith Rovers.

Group G: Motherwell First Through

Tawanda Maswanhise starred with a brace as Motherwell became the first team to qualify for the knockout stages with a 3-0 win over Greenock Morton.

Group H: Kilmarnock Stumble

Despite dominating possession and creating numerous chances, Kilmarnock were held by Kelty Hearts and lost 4-3 on penalties. The group remains wide open heading into the final matches.

All eyes now turn to the decisive final group stage matches this weekend, where several qualification spots remain up for grabs.