Darren Dods takes his Brechin City side north to face Buckie Thistle in the First Round of the Irn Bru Cup, buoyed by the second half fight-back against a strong Livingston side which secured City a first point in this season’s Ladbrokes Championship.

Buckie’s Victoria Park was of the scene of a memorable 2-0 City victory which set up the legendary Scottish Cup Quarter-Final tie in the mud at The Glebe against St Johnstone. Whilst this evokes positive memories for those of a Brechin City persuasion, the goals from David McKenna and Rory McAllister in front of a near 1500 crowd proved a sickener for the home side – as they themselves had their eye on a bit of Cup history by being only the second Highland League side to secure a quarter final place in the national competition. Amazing to think that took place over 6½ years ago.

With the exception of long term injury victim Euan Smith, City travel north with a full squad available – albeit with a slight doubt over Sean Crighton as he struggles with a dead leg in the aftermath of Saturday’s clash with his former club. However, defensive partner Ryan McGeever comes back into contention as he is now free from suspension and speculation is rife amongst supporters that Liam Watt may get his first taste of competitive action of the season.

Darren and his management team will be giving Buckie Thistle every respect as current Highland League Champions, and coming into the game on the back of a fine 5-1 away victory at Wick Academy on Saturday. Thistle have already faced SPFL opposition this season in the group stages of the Betfred Cup as a result of wining the Highland League. Although ultimately losing all four games, Manager Graeme Smith’s side did not disgrace themselves in any way, competing in a tough group which included Dundee, Dundee United, Raith Rovers and Cowdenbeath.

Entry prices for this tie are an attractive £10 for adults and £5 for concessions, with supporters reminded of a pre and post match welcome (as well as half-time) in the Club’s Victoria Lounge, adjacent to the ground.

Should the tie end in a draw, it will go to extra time – and a penalty shoot-out if necessary. In a competition-specific rule change, supporters should be aware that in any ties that do go to extra time, teams will be permitted the option of making a fourth substitution during that period.

The winner of this tie will go into the draw for the second round which will take place at the Falkirk Wheel on Thursday 17th August at 1pm – a draw which will be streamed live on the SPFL Facebook page. In addition to Falkirk and Inverness Caledonian Thistle entering the competition, two entrants each from Wales, Northern Ireland and (for the first time) the Republic of Ireland will also enter. The names of The New Saints and Connah’s Quay, Linfield and Crusaders, and Sligo Wanderers and Bray Wanderers might just bring an interesting twist to the season for the eventual winners of this Thistle v City Irn Bru Cup Tie.