Football: Gala to welcome Rangers B team to Netherdale as KDM Evolution Trophy fixtures released
Last updated 3 hours ago
The draw has been made for this year’s Scottish Challenge Cup – with two of our local teams being invited to take part in the competition as guest sides for the first time.
Gala Fairydean Rovers welcome Rangers B team to Netherdale for their opening game on August the 11th (kick-off 7.45pm).
They also host Hearts B team, Hamilton and Spartans, while facing trips to Stranraer and Alloa.
Meanwhile, Berwick Rangers host Hearts B, Hibs B, Stranraer and Queen of the South, while travelling to Airdrie and Annan.
Now known as the KDM Evolution Trophy, each side plays six games in the newly expanded league phase, with the top 22 clubs progressing to the knockout rounds, along with clubs from the SPFL Championship.
Speaking at the time of the original announcement, Gala chairman Ryan Cass said: “To be invited to participate is a magnificent testament to the hard work, dedication and progress everyone at this football club has achieved over recent years – from our coaching staff and players to our commercial team and volunteers and our community trust.
“This tournament represents a brilliant opportunity for our club. It allows us to test ourselves against excellent opposition, showcase our talent on a wider stage and create memorable match-days for our loyal supporters.
“We enter this competition not just to participate but to compete, learn and do our community proud, and I know our fans will share our immense excitement.
“We look forward to welcoming the SPFL clubs to our home ground and taking our travelling support on this exciting new journey.”
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Prize money has been maintained for this season meaning over £1.3 million will be shared with clubs, with the winners receiving £150,000, and the runners-up £100,000. Clubs progressing from the league phase will be guaranteed at least £30,000.
Fifteen-year-olds will again be eligible to participate in the competition, where youth prospects will play a minimum of six competitive matches against senior opposition.
Neil Doncaster, SPFL group chief executive, said: “After a successful first season of the new-look competition, we are hugely excited to welcome 10 guest clubs into our expanded tournament. We would like to thank KDM Group for their continued sponsorship of the competition as we prepare for the league phase commencing next month.”
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