FIVE THINGS TO NOTE FROM THE BETFRED CUP WEEKEND

HELANDER TAKES IT ALL IN HIS STRIDE

ON his competitive Rangers debut, Filip Helander gradually grew into the game at a blustery Bayview. The Swede has a gangly long stride and he used it to positive effect to charge into the East Fife half and set up Jermain Defoe to break the deadlock. Helander netted the second goal in the Betfred Cup win and looks an imposing figure in the Rangers backline.

JITTERY JULLIEN FAILS TO CONVINCE

A NERVY display against a lower-league side will do little to convince fans that all is well in the Celtic defence. Dunfermline striker Kevin Nisbet forced £7million signing Christopher Jullien into two notable mistakes. The Pars netted with their only shot on target to force extra-time and Jullien will need more time than expected to settle in at Parkhead.

HOLT IS RIGHT TO GIVE LIVINGSTON A JOLT

LIVINGSTON may have got the job done at Forfar but boss Gary Holt was less than impressed. Livvy conceded a cheap goal and the League One side were not far away from forcing extra-time. Holt (right) warned his team against any slackness in the future as it will be punished in the Premiership.

KILMARNOCK REQUIRE MORE CUTTING EDGE

ANGELO ALESSIO needed extratime to register his first victory as Kilmarnock boss at Rugby Park. Despite the 1-0 Betfred Cup win over Hamilton Accies, the Ayrshire outfit require more firepower if they are to get anywhere near the levels of last season. Dom Thomas struck in the 113th minute but plenty of openings were spurned before then.

MILLER STILL ABLE TO GO THE EXTRA MILE

EVERGREEN Kenny Miller proved that he is still as fit as a flea after playing 120 minutes in Partick Thistle’s 3-2 win over Ross County in the Betfred Cup. The 39-year-old striker netted for the Jags to take a thrilling last-16 tie the distance at Firhill. It’s clear that Miller has lost none of his energy and enthusiasm for the game.