Aberdeen’s cup win eases Robinson, Kilmarnock miss angers McCann
Aberdeen’s quarter‑final win in the Premier Sports Cup secures a place in the semi‑final and gives manager Stephen Robinson a much‑needed lift after four league games without a goal, while Kilmarnock’s penalty defeat leaves Neil McCann furious at a missed chance to progress.
Kevin Nisbet gave Aberdeen the lead with a header in the 52nd minute. Ten minutes later Daniel Happe received a second yellow for a foul on Joe Hugill and was sent off, leaving Kilmarnock with ten men. Tyreece John‑Jules then levelled the score from close range, sending the tie into extra time.
The match was decided by a penalty shoot‑out in which Aberdeen’s keeper Marius Muller saved three attempts from John‑Jules, Mark O’Hara and Aaron Tshibola. Jack Milne converted the decisive spot‑kick as the Dons triumphed 3‑1 on penalties. The home crowd responded with boos as the visitors celebrated.
Robinson celebrates and looks ahead
Stephen Robinson hailed his side’s composure, noting they had shown the character and quality he sees in training. He praised Marius Muller’s ‘excellent’ contribution and lauded Ayoub Mouloua’s audacious Panenka‑style penalty, saying the youngster was ‘very lucky he scored’ and displayed great composure. Robinson, who won the Premier Sports Cup while in charge of St Mirren last season, added that the win provides a catalyst to build momentum.
Kilmarnock face a psychological blow
Neil McCann lambasted Kilmarnock for ‘letting themselves down massively’ after the red card squandered a golden opportunity to reach the semi‑final. He reminded that Killie have failed to win any of their opening five William Hill Premiership matches and could not capitalise on the extra man. McCann warned the boys will be ‘really, really down’ and face a long night ahead.
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The victory also ends a run of four league games without a goal for the Dons, offering a morale boost as the season progresses.