Kenny Shiels guide Killie to the League Cup semi-finals, beating rivals Ayr United. Despite the win, Shiels criticised rival team tactics, believing the club should have done more. On 18 February 2012, Kilmarnock beat Rangers 1–0, with Shiels' son Dean scoring in the 12th minute, making him the first Kilmarnock manager to beat Rangers twice in one season. After the match, Shiels said a win over Rangers was dedicated to the club's supporters and praised his son, who scored the only goal in the match, for his performance as "outstanding". On 18 March 2012, Shiels' Kilmarnock side travelled to Hampden Park for
Kenny Shiels performance. A week after a memorable win over Celtic, Shiels would report referee Euan Norris of making inappropriate comments, following a 2-1 default against Inverness Caledonian Thistle, which Norris would send-off Cammy Bell. His support even attracted FIFA vice-president Jim Boyce, suggesting that SFA should hire Shiels. His remark also led to Shiels given a five-match touchline ban after disciplinary hearing with the SFA. Following this, Shiels then appealed against his decision, but will serve his touchline ban. Another referee, Andrew Dallas, reaction on Shiels allegations as extremely "surprised and disappointed". Shiels would response Dallas' comment by accusing him of