Michael Beale faces new Rangers challenge as David Martindale sets 'extra motivation' for Livingston cup shock troops

David Martindale says Livingston will head to Rangers with extra motivation as they look for Viaplay Cup glory.

The Lions boss lost the showpiece of this competition in 2021 to St Johnstone and will be keen to rekindle the heroics of 2004's West Lothian triumph. But in his side's way are Rangers, who head into the game with pressure building yet against on boss Michael Beale after a nervy 1-0 win over Motherwell on Sunday.

Performance levels were blasted post-match by the gaffer as the Steelmen came close to taking a point, which some believe would have been merited. Martindale - who saw Baycup Ltd and their director John McIlvogue successfully complete the acquisition of a majority stake in Livingston on Sunday - says all the focus he has will be on his Lions. But he notes Kilmarnock dumping Celtic out the competition adds an extra edge while Ibrox injuries are noted down.

He said: “Motherwell were unlucky but Rangers still made three or four good chances in that game. Mick has a few injuries to deal with, Matondo was taken off also so that’s another one added to the mix.

“But I only want to focus on Livingston. Going there is going to be difficult, both teams are going into it one game away from Hampden, Celtic have obviously been knocked out already so that gives every other Premiership club’s chances of success a boost.

"So there is that wee bit of added motivation for us and I’m sure Mick and his players will be looking to get the first piece of silverware under their belt. But we will be doing everything we can to get ourselves in the hat for the next round and book our place at Hampden.”

Martindale also reckons the Livi takeover can ease some burden after a tough few years at the club. He said: “It’s got to be a