St Mirren Set for Hearts Clash in Cup

2 weeks ago

Defending champions Celtic will face newly-promoted Falkirk in the Premier Sports Cup last 16, while third-tier Alloa Athletic earned a challenging away match against Rangers after topping their group.

The draw took place following St Mirren's 2-1 victory over Ayr United, which secured their place as group winners. Stephen Robinson's side will now host Scottish Premiership rivals Heart of Midlothian.

Key Matchups

Celtic vs Falkirk - Holders face Championship newcomers
Rangers vs Alloa Athletic - Third-tier leaders visit Ibrox
St Mirren vs Hearts - Premiership clash at SMiSA Stadium

Despite their loss, Ayr United qualified as one of the best runners-up and will face Championship rivals Partick Thistle at Firhill.

European Teams Enter Competition

Five clubs received byes to this stage due to European commitments:

Aberdeen travel to face Greenock Morton
Dundee United visit Kilmarnock
Hibernian face newly-promoted Livingston

The remaining fixture sees relegated St Johnstone host Premiership side Motherwell, with all matches scheduled for the weekend of August 16/17.

Manager Reactions

St Mirren's Stephen Robinson told BBC Radio Scotland: "We achieved our goal of progressing and getting a home tie. Hearts are spending millions and have huge expectations, but we fancy our chances against anyone here."

Ayr United's Scott Brown commented: "We can't seem to avoid Partick Thistle. While we wanted a home draw, we showed against top-six opposition that we can compete at this level."

Complete Second Round Draw

Celtic v Falkirk
Greenock Morton v Aberdeen
Kilmarnock v Dundee United
Livingston v Hibernian
Partick Thistle v Ayr United
Rangers v Alloa Athletic
St Johnstone v Motherwell
St Mirren v Heart of Midlothian

Full fixture details and TV selections will be confirmed later this week following UEFA second-round qualifying matches.