League Cup Round One – Berwick Rangers vs Alloa Athletic: Match Preview

Competitive football returns to Shielfield Park tomorrow afternoon (3pm Kick Off) as the ‘Gers play host to Ladbrokes SPFL Championship side Alloa Athletic in League Cup action.

Berwick Team News:

Influential midfielder Steven Notman misses out once more, but may not be too far from a return.

There’s good news for boss Colin Cameron in that all players came through last weekend’s 3-1 Petrofac Training Cup defeat to St Mirren unscathed, and so he’ll have an almost-full squad to choose from.

The only player to miss out will be Steven Notman, the midfielder still recovering from a knee operation he had during pre-season. However, there is some good news for last year’s multiple Player of the Season, with club therapist Jenna Orr reporting a return to training may not be far off:

“Steven is progressing really well,” Jenna explained. “He’s already back working in the gym, and hopefully he’ll be ready for a little light running on Saturday prior to the match. Otherwise, the gaffer should have a full squad available to him.”

Whether the boss opts to change from the starting eleven, or 4-2-3-1 system that the ‘Gers looked impressive in against another Championship opposition last weekend however, remains to be seen.

Alloa Athletic Team News:

The Wasps have been bolstered ahead of the clash with news that Estonian defender Mikk Reintam has received international clearance and subsequently signed for the club.

The international defender has been capped 25 times and will go straight into the squad for tomorrow’s tie.

Alloa had to be at their best to prevent an upset at Brora Rangers last weekend where they’d win 1-0, and will be looking to once more avoid upset tomorrow.

Admission:

Pricing for the match remains as per league games, although season tickets do not apply.

Adults – £12

Concessions – £6

Season tickets are still available for purchase from the club – fans should make their way to the main office prior to the match to purchase theirs.

Odds:

SPFL League Two sponsors Ladbrokes once more rate us as outsiders for the match, with the Dream Team 15/4 to secure a place in the next round.

Berwick – 15/4

Draw – 27/10

Alloa Athletic – 13/20

Match Officials:

Referee Craig Charleston will take charge of the match and will be assisted by assistants Mark McLean & Ralph Gordon.

Enjoy the match!