FIVE THINGS WE LEARNED FROM BETFRED CUP WEEKEND

STATIC CELTIC STUCK IN NO-MAN’S LAND

BEATEN to the ball at the front and then the back post, the concession of Celtic’s second goal in their 2-0 defeat to Ross County summed up all their defensive woes. Neil Lennon’s side struggle to deal with any kind of set-play situation and the Staggies sealed the upset through a routine corner. Collectively, Celtic are all at sea when defending their box.

FOCUSED RANGERS RACK UP THE GOALS

FOUR goals with four different names on the scoresheet, Rangers were thoroughly professional in a 4-0 away win against Falkirk. Steven Gerrard’s men have developed a ruthless streak and the Ibrox club have now scored 21 goals in their last five matches in all competitions. No matter what’s going on across the city, Rangers remain fully focused.

FITZWATER HELPS LIONS ROAR BACK

DEFENDER Jack Fitzwater netted twice as Livingston raced into a 3-0 lead over Ayr United after just 12 minutes on Saturday. Livvy bullied their Championship rivals early on and Fitzwater (right) took full advantage. The home side’s 4-0 win saw them bounce back to form in style in the week boss Gary Holt resigned.

HIBERNIAN CAN RELY ON MAGICAL MURPHY

JAMIE MURPHY has had to battle back from a horrible long-term knee injury and the on-loan Rangers winger is reaping the reward of regular game time at Easter Road. Murphy looks as sharp as ever and made the difference for Hibs in a 1-0 win over Dundee. He has now netted twice in his last three matches for Jack Ross’s side.

WONDERFUL WASPS HUNGRY FOR MORE

ALLOA were in inspired form to defeat Hearts 1-0 in extra-time but the challenge for the Wasps is using their first competitive win over the Gorgie club in 131 years as a springboard to improve their league form. Peter Grant’s part-timers face Ayr and Arbroath in their next two Championship games and will look to get off the foot of the table.