Match Preview: Ayr United v Cowdenbeath

Cowdenbeath return to cup action on Tuesday night with a trip down the west coast to take on Ayr United in the second round of the Alba Challenge Cup.

A 1-0 win over Raith Rovers in the opening round set up the trip to Somerset Park and both teams will be focussed on progressing into the quarter final of the competition.

"We are looking to progress into the next round of the competition and will be going all out to win the game", said Jimmy Nicholl.

"Ayr will be thinking the same but we have a chance if we build on the positive performance against Ross County at the weekend.

"County had the bulk of possession in the early period of the game and David Hay made two terrific saves. But we quickly found our feet and started to play some good football.

"I was delighted with the way the game was going at half time but it was disappointing to lose a goal early in the second half. Particularly so as it came from our own corner.

"We were never going to settle for a 1-0 defeat and pushed men forward in search of an equaliser but could not find the back of the net. We came close on a number of ocassions - including a good shout for a penalty - but were left exposed at the back and lost a second on the counter attack.

"I told the lads after the game not to be disheartened because as long as they keep believing and working hard they will get their rewards. We more than held our own against one of the top teams in the division and there were more postives than negatives to take from the game.

Jon Robertson is close to a return but Tuesday will come too soon while new signing Richard Vauls (thigh strain) joins Joe Mbu, Danny Mackay and Dene Droudge on the sidelines. Kenny Adamson returns from suspension.