Aberdeen boss Derek McInnes has admitted he is also responsible for the crushing defeat to Hearts as he refused to lump all the blame on his spot-kick sinners.
The Dons crashed out of the Betfred Cup at the quarter-final stage despite twice taking the lead at Tynecastle.
Sam Cosgrove , Niall McGinn and Bruce Anderson missed in the shootout after extra-time proved goalless following the 2-2 draw in extra time.
But McInnes insists he can’t point an accusatory finger at the trio.
The Reds manager told the Evening Express: “There is no more blame on those boys who missed penalties.
“We are all responsible.
“We all had the chance to win the game.
“When it comes down to penalties they are not any more responsible than anyone else.
“Into the penalty shootout I thought I have the best keeper in the league and I have good penalty takers.
“Unfortunately it did not play out that way.
“Hearts took their penalties well and that is why they are through.
“It was a sore one for my players and the club.”
McInnes especially had sympathy for Aberdeen top scorer Cosgrove, who had twice netted from the spot during normal time.
He said: “It is unusual to take three penalties in a game.
“However Sam did what he normally does with the first one and for the second he went the other way.
“Maybe he was a bit undecided because I have never seen Sam be so loose with a penalty.
“I thought Cosgrove was magnificent in that first half in particular.
“He led the line brilliantly.
“Unfortunately we need to be watching the semi finals rather than taking part in them this year.”
