Holders Celtic crashed out of the Viaplay Cup at the last-16 stage at the hands of impressive Kilmarnock, inflicting a first cup defeat for Parkhead club under Brendan Rodgers.
In a match devoid of goalmouth action, former Aberdeen striker Marley Watkins popped up with the winner just shy of the hour mark, stretching at the back post to turn home Danny Armstrong’s cross.
Killie, who completed an Old Firm double in the process after beating Rangers on the opening day of the league season, had just 30% of the possession and had to soak up some late pressure from the visitors to advance to the quarter-finals.
Celtic - winners of six of the past seven editions of this competition - were unable to score a traditional late goal as they slipped to a first League Cup defeat since November 2020.
Here’s our Celtic player ratings following the defeat in Ayrshire:
Unused subs: Scott Bain (GK), Liam Scales, Kwon Hyeok-kyu, Tomoki Iwata, Alexandro Bernabei, James Forrest.
5. Maik Nawrocki - 7/10
Developing into a key defensive figure with whoever he plays alongside. Used the ball fairly well. Photo: Ross MacDonald - SNS Group
6. Greg Taylor - 6/10
Facing his former club, the Scotland international put in an improved display after last week’s nightmare. Off the pitch receiving treatment for a head knock when Kilmarnock scored. | Getty Images
7. Callum McGregor - 5/10
Not at his most influential again. Booked for a blatant body check on Armstrong early in the second half. Has allowed his usually consistent performance levels to dip in recent weeks. Photo: Craig Foy - SNS Group
8. Matt O’Riley - 5/10
Had a tame effort comfortably saved by the keeper from the edge of the penalty box. Failed to hit the heights of his two two league appearances. Subbed after 74 mins. Photo: Craig Foy - SNS Group