STEVE CLARKE was frustrated Kilmarnock’s efforts didn’t pay off against Rangers as they were beaten in the Betfred Cup.

Alfredo Morelos netted the perfect hat-trick – header, right foot, left foot – at Rugby Park to fire Steven Gerrard’s side into the last eight of the competition.

Killie found themselves two goals down at the break and saw Chris Burke denied by a terrific stop from keeper Wes Foderingham.

But the home side were given a lifeline when Borna Barisic turned a Jordan Jones cross into his own net just six minutes into the second half.

The third goal from Morelos effectively killed the tie and ensured Rangers progressed to the last eight and a tie with Ayr United.

But Rugby Park boss Clarke, who handed keeper Daniel Bachmann his debut following his loan switch from Watford, was pleased with the performance from his side.

He said: “They (Rangers) are playing with more confidence. The have a good man in charge who knows what he is doing and has good people around him.

“They know what they are doing. They have improved the personnel on the pitch and as a team.

“I thought we were good in the game from start to finish. I ask my players to be competitive every week and they were competitive.

“We had chances to be in front, we hit the bar twice and their keeper made an unbelievable save.

“Was it a big moment? Possibly. It could have been a different afternoon, it might not, as Rangers are a good time.

“I thought we played well, with one little caveat. We didn’t defend too well in some instances.

“The goals were a consequence of our mistakes but we’ll work on that on the training pitch.

“I thought Daniel did well, he made some good saves and it’s important to have to good keepers competing for the jersey.”