Match Preview: Raith Rovers v Cowdenbeath

Jimmy Nicholl takes charge of his first competitive game for the Blue Brazil this weekend when he takes his new team to Stark's Park to face Raith Rovers in the 1st round of the MG Alba Cup.

The Irishman was appointed to the post at the end of June and fate will see him return to Stark's Park - the place where he started his managerial career and enjoyed much sucess in the 90s -  in his first game in charge. His assistant, Colin Cameron, was part of that Raith team and the former Scotland internationalist is expected to make his debut at the home of his first senior club.

"It is a cracking first match in charge and I'm looking forward to it", said Nicholl.

"The lads have made a big step up to the 1st Division but this is the first opportunity for them to show what they can do at this level.

"They are all excited about the season ahead and have looked the part in training.

"I have added to the squad this week and will be looking to further strengthen a couple of areas in particular in the weeks ahead."

Jon Robertson injured his ankle in training and joins Joe Mbu, Dene Droudge and Danny Mackay on the sidelines.

Recent signings Ludovic Roy, Marc McKenzie, Greg Stewart and Zane Powell are all added to the squad.

Experienced stopper Ludo Roy joins up as player/goalkeeping coach from Queen of the South along with 25 year old winger Marc McKenzie who was with East Stirling last season. They are joined at Central Park by two promising young forwards. 21-year old Stewarts has signed from Syngenta Juveniles 21s while Powell (17) was with Motherwell.