Dean Shiels’ extra-time winner took Kilmarnock past Ayrshire rivals Ayr United in their Scottish League Cup semi-final at Hampden Park yesterday.

The Premier League side dominated throughout but were thwarted by Ayr keeper Kevin Cuthbert who made great saves from Gary Harkins, Shiels, Manuel Pascali and Garry Hay.

However, Cuthbert’s stubborn resistance was broken in the 109th minute when Shiels, who had recovered from illness to play, drove low into the corner to set up a final appearance against either Celtic or Falkirk who play in the second semi-final today.

It was a deserved win for Kenny Shiels’ side but they certainly made hard work of a game they should have won easily on the balance of possession and chances created.

However, that will not bother the Killie fans who look forward to their first final appearance in the competition in five years.

Kilmarnock manager Kenny Shiels condemned the approach of his Ayr counterpart Brian Reid to the game.

“I am relieved because football was the winner today and the most important thing in this industry is to provide good football and entertainment,” said Shiels. “To attack for two hours is not easy but it was like a bunch of daffodils around the penalty box every time I looked. Belief comes from tactics but Ayr United wouldn’t come out and I don’t know why because they have decent players.”

Ayr boss Reid was next into the Hampden media room and he hit back at Shiels’ assessment.

“Kenny should keep his opinion to himself, he should worry about his own team,” said the former Morton and Rangers defender.

“I think that is disrespectful and I am disappointed.

“He made a few silly comments in saying that we are full-time when we are part-time so I don’t think he should be saying these things.”

League Cup SFs
Ayr 0 - Kilmarnock 1 (after extra-time)

Playing today
Falkirk-Celtic - 16:00