Stranraer 2–3 Ayr United | Scottish League Cup (Group Stage) | 11 July 2026

Ayr United came from behind to beat Stranraer 3–2 at Stair Park in a pulsating Scottish League Cup group‑stage match. The Honest Men showed character after a shaky start, ultimately securing the victory that keeps their qualification hopes alive.

Match Overview

Stranraer, playing in front of a vocal home crowd, took the game to their higher‑division opponents. Midfielder Ross McLeod gave the hosts the lead with a stunning volley in the 17th minute. Ayr equalised before half‑time through winger Mark McKenzie, but Stranraer restored their advantage early in the second half via a Connor MacArthur penalty.

Key Moments

• 17' – McLeod volleys Stranraer ahead.
• 38' – McKenzie turns home a cross to level for Ayr.
• 52' – MacArthur converts a penalty after a handball.
• 68' – Ayr substitute Ben Dempsey heads in from a corner.
• 81' – Striker David Bangala fires a low shot into the far corner to complete the comeback.

Tactical Story

Stranraer’s high‑intensity pressing caused Ayr problems in the first hour, but the visitors’ deeper squad told as legs tired. Ayr manager Lee Bullen made three attacking substitutions that changed the momentum, stretching the Stranraer defence wide and creating space for Bangala’s winner.

Group Stage Impact

Ayr United move to six points from three games in the League Cup group, putting them in contention with Queen’s Park and Montrose. Stranraer remain on three points after two matches, needing a win in their final fixture to have any chance of advancing.