Phillips' Double Sends St Mirren Into Cup Last 16

Killian Phillips' double strike propelled St Mirren to victory in a thrilling Premier Sports Cup encounter, securing their place as Group D winners despite a spirited second-half comeback from Ayr United. The Championship side also progressed as one of the best runners-up, edging out Dunfermline Athletic on goal difference.

Match Highlights

St Mirren entered the match needing only a draw (with potential penalty shoot-out bonus) to advance, but showed clear intent to top the group. The breakthrough came in the 16th minute when Phillips converted Roland Idowu's cross with a precise low drive that beat goalkeeper David Mitchell.

The midfielder doubled his tally - and fourth in two games - seven minutes before halftime, calmly slotting home another Idowu delivery. Ayr, who had won their first three matches, struggled to create chances in a disappointing first-half display.

Second Half Drama

After Mikael Mandron missed a golden opportunity to extend St Mirren's lead, Ayr manager Scott Brown's tactical changes sparked a revival. Winger Dom Thomas came close with a curling effort before his corner found Kevin Holt, who powered home a header.

Thomas continued to threaten with two more dangerous corners, but debutant goalkeeper Shamal George confidently dealt with subsequent headers from George Oakley and Holt. Despite Mark O'Hara wasting a late chance to seal the game, St Mirren held on for the win.

Post-Match Reactions

St Mirren manager Stephen Robinson: "Our first-half performance was outstanding. We became complacent after halftime and conceded from a set-piece, but showed character to see out the game. We should have scored three or four more."

Ayr United's Scott Brown: "A tale of two halves. We gave them too much respect early on but dominated after the break. With our finishing lineup from the start, we could have caused more problems. We proved we can compete with top-six sides."

Looking Ahead

St Mirren will host Hearts in the last 16, while Ayr face Championship rivals Partick Thistle away.

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