The Curse of the Petrofac Training Cup final

Each of the last six winning managers have failed to stay in their job past the end of the following season

Jimmy Calderwood lasted only two months after winning the 2011 final. Picture: Ian Rutherford

2015: Mark Burchill (Livingston – 8 months)

Despite leading them to Challenge Cup success and executing a great escape in the league, Livingston’s delusions of grandeur motivated them to sack Burchill yesterday, despite them still being competitive in a tough Ladbrokes Championship table.

2014: Grant Murray (Raith Rovers - 14 months)

He was responsible for one of the best days in Raith Rovers’ recent history, but it wasn’t enough to make up for some underwhelming league performances across his tenure. Clubs often attempt good PR around the time they launch season ticket packages for the following campaign. Raith chose to sack Murray.

2013: Allan Johnston (Queen of the South - 2 months)

A little different as Johnston walked away from the club when an offer to manage in the top flight came his way. Though Kilmarnock fans would argue he brought the curse with him to Rugby Park.

2012: Steven Pressley (Falkirk – 11 months)

Pressley left Falkirk to join Coventry City and then watched his new employers go into administration within a month of him pitching up in the Midlands. After a promising start he was sacked earlier this year.

2011: Jimmy Calderwood (Ross County – 2 months)

Victory in the competition wasn’t enough to persuade Ross County he was the right man for the job after taking over on a short-term basis following the sacking of Willie McStay. Calderwood, despite having ample time to improve a clearly underachieving squad, only just avoided relegation. He’s not had a job in Scottish football since.

2009: Jocky Scott (Dundee - 4 months)

Back in the days when the Challenge Cup final was played before Christmas, Dundee came back from two goals down to defeat Inverness in a thrilling contest. However, Inverness would get the last laugh with Terry Butcher’s side coming back from a 15-point deficit in mid-January to take the First Division title. This was a Dundee side with Leigh Griffiths and Gary Harkins in it as well. Oh Jocky...

2016: Mark Warburton/Jim McInally (Rangers/Peterhead - ?)

One is the longest serving boss in Scottish football, so his time is certainly due. The other, respectfully, doesn’t wish to discuss speculation linking him elsewhere...