Dumbarton make the journey to the BBSP Stadium Rugby Park this evening to take on Kilmarnock ‘B’ in the Second Round of the SPFL Trust Trophy.
Killie were 3-1 winners over Bonnyrigg Rose earlier this month to set up the tie as Sons play in the competition for the first time this season.
It’s been a frustrating start to the campaign for boss Stevie Farrell after his side drew their opening two league games 1-1 after leading in both, and he sees tonight as an opportunity for players to earn a spot in his starting eleven.
He said: “Saturday was a carbon copy of the week before. Spartans had a lot of the ball in the middle of the pitch but they didn’t hurt us all game and had one shot on target.
“We’ve got to defend better but we became too deep which let them come on to us.
“We’ll freshen the squad up again for this evening. It’s good that we have people coming back and we can get them game time because we are going to need the squad.
“I know this cup isn’t everybody’s cup of tea but we’re certainly going there to try and win the tie.”
Kick-off this evening is at 7.45pm. If the scores are level after 90 minutes, penalties will be used to determine who advances to the next round.
In team news, Michael Ruth is unavailable after hobbling off of Saturday’s clash with Spartans and Callum Wilson and Declan Byrne remain out. Ryan Wallace [pictured] is set to be involved again after returning from his honeymoon.
There is NO pay at the gate facility this evening with tickets needing to be purchased in advance from here: https://kilmarnockfc.ticketco.events/uk/en/e/kilmarnock_b_v_dumbarton__spfl_trust_trophy__wednesday_16th_august__745pm_kickoff. All supporters will be housed in the Frank Beattie stand. Sons supporters should scroll down and select ‘Dumbarton support’ when purchasing tickets.
Seats remain on the supporters bus which departs Castle Street, Dumbarton at 5.30pm. Contact Gillie Brough on Facebook Messenger or by calling 07948532539.
This evenings match referee is Daniel Graves and he is assisted by Drew Kirkland and Jamie Andrews.