Ross County under-20s manager Stuart Kettlewell is pleased his side will get another chance to play senior opposition after being drawn against Forfar Athletic in the first round of the IRN-BRU Cup.
The Staggies’ Development League title-winning side was yesterday handed a home draw against the newly promoted League 1 outfit at Victoria Park on either Tuesday, August 15, or Wednesday, August 16.
The competition’s revamped format, which saw Premiership sides enter under-20 teams at the first round, drew criticism after being introduced last season, with Celtic’s under-20s the only team to make it to the third round, before losing 5-1 to Livingston.
County were beaten at the first stage of last year’s competition, losing 3-2 after extra time against Brora Rangers.
Kettlewell felt the experience of taking on senior opponents was ideal preparation for his young players ahead of their successful league campaign.
Kettlewell, who last week added midfielder Max Ashmore, defender Kyle Johnson and attacker Nathan Turner to his squad for the new season, said: “I know there has possibly been mixed reviews from certain quarters but I thought it was a great success last year.
“We played a very good Brora Rangers side at home and drew a good crowd.
“That was the start of the wee journey we went on last year and the interest that was generated from the local supporters, which we’re very thankful for.
“You can play all the friendly matches but actually creating that competitive environment where there’s expectations on the lads, and real challenges for them from within the game – we can’t do that from within a friendly match.
“It was a great success and I think that really set the tone for us for the season ahead.
“I’m hopeful it’s the same this year and I know from speaking to other under-20s managers, a lot of the guys felt the same.
“It was a great experience for their players.”
Aberdeen under-20s will be at home to St Johnstone colts, while Elgin City were drawn away to Hibernian under-20s and Peterhead away to East Fife.
