Millar scores

By FOS Editor
September 21 2011

Two more major shocks in the League Cup tonight with holders Rangers being beaten by a young Falkirk side, and Hearts beaten on pens by Ayr

Celtic were up first with a trip to Dingwall to take on Ross County who embarrassed them in the Scottish Cup 17 months ago, but there never looked like being a repeat tonight.

County were fired up at the start of the game but after Gary Hooper tapped in from close range after about 15 minutes it was always going to be an away win. County did give their all but never really looked like getting back into the game.

Early in the second half Boyd turned an Anthony Stokes cross into his own net and sealed the win for Celtic.

Neil Lennon will be delighted to have got past this little hurdle after the stressful week they have had to date, particularly knowing theirGlasgowrivals have been knocked out.

Rangers had a much changed side at the Falkirk Stadium and were always struggling to break the home side down.

Two goals from Falkirk’s El Alagui in the 58^th and 73^rd minute had the holders on the back foot. The goals did get a response from Rangers and goals from Goian and Jelavic looked to have at least taken the game to Extra Time.

But there was sting in the tail when a Miller free kick in stoppage time beat Neil Alexander to send the Bairns through.

This will be a real test of character for Ally McCoist and Craig Whyte as the look to steer Rangers towards more silverware this season. This just shows how quickly can dump you after you feel on top of the world as Rangers did on Sunday after the Old Firm game.

In the other game tonightAyrand Hearts could only be split in the third tie to go to penalties over the two nights. Hearts took the lead through Robinson, before Wardlaw equalised for the home side.

There was no further scoring, even in extra time, and the game moved to penalties.Ayrdumped the Jambos by 4 pens to 1, with Mark Roberts converting the winning the kick.