Airdrie United are set to face Dumbarton in the KDM Evolution Trophy group stage opener on Tuesday, with Liam McLeish expecting a tough test despite Dumbarton's League 2 status. McLeish, who grabbed his first Airdrie goal at the weekend, believes the Sons will be confident after winning their previous match and will be aggressive in their approach.
What happened?
McLeish equalised from the spot after East Kilbride had taken a second-half lead in the weekend's League 1 match, winning and then converting the penalty to level the tie. The 22-year-old striker has been limited to three substitute appearances after succumbing to illness immediately after signing up at the Albert Bartlett.
Why it matters for Airdrie United
A win in the KDM Evolution Trophy group stage opener would be a crucial boost for Airdrie United, who are currently 9th in the Scottish Championship with 36 points from 36 games. The team has scored 35 goals and conceded 49, with a goal difference of -14. They are 41 points behind leaders St Johnstone in the title race.
What comes next?
Airdrie United will be looking to build momentum ahead of their next fixture against Ross County on October 24. With a gruelling seven matches in August, McLeish will be hoping to have played himself into contention for a start on Tuesday evening. The team is expected to make changes, with Mason Chisholm, Cole McKinnon, and Zac Butterworth still expected to miss out through injury.
What does the coach say?
Assistant manager Declan Gallagher was on the same page regarding the importance of a cup victory. "We go into the game looking to get that first win and build momentum. Right now I think we're in a good place, we know we've got a lot of hard games coming up in the league so we obviously want to get off to a winning start in the cup."
What does the player say?
McLeish believes that a midweek win could start the ball rolling as the Diamonds look to build momentum. "You want to win every game, don't you? If you get the three points in the cup, it gives you something to build on."
Match details
Referee Jamie Wilkie is the man in the middle at The Rock. Match tickets are available using the link below, and will also be available from the ticket window at the ground (cash and card accepted).
League standing
Airdrie United are currently 9th in the Scottish Championship, with 36 points from 36 games. They have scored 35 goals and conceded 49, with a goal difference of -14. They are 41 points behind leaders St Johnstone in the title race.
