A troubled season for Ayr saw them finish in 8th place and avoid the relegation play-offs on goal difference. Yet, they started the season well and had hopes of contesting the promotion play-off to the Premiership. One defeat in the opening 7 matches had them established in the top 4.
After that bright opening, only 1 win in the next 10 matches sealed player/manager Mark Kerr’s fate. A series of 3 consecutive defeats at home without scoring a goal saw him depart by mutual consent. Kerr often seemed undecided if he should pick himself.
Ayr had failed to replace striker Lawrence Shankland during the summer. Midfielder Luke McCowan finished as top scorer with only 5 goals. They were mentally weak in defence and were prone to late collapses.
Shortly after Kerr’s departure, former Morton manager David Hopkin was appointed to the post. Apart from a win at Dundee, performances failed to improve with a 4-0 defeat at Arbroath proving hard to stomach for Ayr’s fans.
Ayr had just 1 win in their final 10 matches of the season (W1 D6 L3) and failed to win any of their last 7 at home. However, a 2-2 draw at Inverness on the final day ensured 8th place on goal difference.
Finances are tight at Ayr and it is difficult to see how they can improve next season. At least McCowan is breaking through, but they still require a striker who creates and takes chances.
