Kilmarnock secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Ayr United in the Ayrshire derby to advance to the Premier Sports Cup quarter-finals, with Nicky Clescenco scoring a late winner.
The home side conceded an early goal in the fifth minute when Owen Stirton volleyed past Max Stryjek after Jamie Brandon turned over possession. Ayr United pressed their advantage, but Kilmarnock managed to equalize just before halftime. Tyreece John-Jules fed Joe Hugill, who scored into the bottom corner.
Second Half Revival
Ayr United regained the lead early in the second half. Ross Taylor found the net with a driven shot from the edge of the box after Kilmarnock's concentration lapsed following their own throw-in.
Despite further attempts from both sides, including a header from Robbie Deas and an ambitious effort from Tom Lowery that was tipped away by Ayr goalkeeper Harry Stone, Kilmarnock mounted a late comeback. Michael Schjonning-Larsen equalized with 11 minutes remaining, driving forward from 40 yards and scoring with a powerful right-foot finish.
In the 89th minute, Stone spilled a routine cross, and Clescenco capitalized on the error, chipping the ball into the net to complete the turnaround and secure the win for Kilmarnock. The victory provides a significant morale boost for Kilmarnock manager Neil McCann, whose team had endured a difficult start to the league campaign, conceding nine goals and failing to earn a point in their opening matches.
Nicky Clescenco produced an ice-cool finish late on to complete the Killie comeback
The visitors went ahead for the second time through Ross Taylor early in the second half
