GLASGOW, Scotland (AP) - Rangers endured a second cup defeat in six days by losing 3-1 to Dundee United in the semifinals of the Scottish Cup on Saturday.
After being upset 1-0 by Raith Rovers in the final of the Scottish Challenge Cup for lower-league teams last Sunday, Rangers was seeking redemption at its own Ibrox stadium to stay on course for a 33rd title in the country’s main cup competition.
However, United went two goals ahead by the 36th minute through Stuart Armstrong and Gary Mackay-Steven and clinched victory in the 83rd when Nadir Ciftci capitalised on goalkeeping error.
Steven Smith had reduced Rangers’ deficit to 2-1 just before halftime.
United will play in the final against St. Johnstone or Aberdeen, who meet in the second semifinal on Sunday.
“It’s a big ask for my young players to handle these occasions and that will serve them well in the future,” said United manager Jackie McNamara, whose team will compete in its 10th Scottish Cup final - winning it on two occasions.
Rangers was promoted to Scotland’s second tier last month after being demoted to the fourth tier for financial irregularities.
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