Staggies seeking sharp start in Betfred Cup opener
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ROSS County boss Jim McIntyre insists the shaken-up Betfred Cup will have players primed for action as the club sets its sights on retaining the silverware.
And, as holders of the rebranded competition, which was called the Scottish League Cup, the Staggies are determined to come through Group D unscathed against Montrose, Raith Rovers, Alloa Athletic and Cove Rangers.
The Dingwall side, who beat Hibs 2-1 in last season’s final in March, kick off their section at League Two Montrose on Saturday.
The Gable Endies, who lost 2-0 to Peterhead in a friendly last week, finished eighth in their division last season and County are expected to get off the mark with three points, with the top two teams going into the second round next month.
McIntyre told the North Star: "The competition is a bit of a trip into the unknown in that teams have normally played five or six friendlies before playing a competitive game, but this will make a difference to players and their mentality. In friendly games against lower league opposition players can just look after themselves and get through the game, but that won’t be the case in these cup ties.
"Montrose is a tough venue to go to, but we are ready. We are the holders and we’re looking to win the games and the group to ensure that we are in the hat for the second round next month."
