BetFred fixtures line-up a north derby for starters

The fixtures for the first phase of the BetFred Cup have been firmed-up with the schedule of group games.

The first game back in competitive action will see a north derby between Ross County and Elgin City on July 14th in Group A. Caley Thistle that same Saturday will host HFL champions Cove Rangers in Group C.

Tuesday the 17th of July has a trip to Cowdenbeath for ICT in Group C, with a crunch tie in Group A as Ross County welcome Dundee United, who recently added to their numbers with the signing of former Staggies forward Craig Curran.

Saturday 21st of July Elgin City head to the blustery venue of Gayfield, home of Arbroath, before they host Alloa on the 24th of July. That same Tuesday evening in Group C, Caley Thistle take on Raith Rovers.

The final weekend of games sees Group A fixtures between Alloa and Ross County, while Elgin City entertain Dundee United.

Group C concludes with Cove Rangers v Raith Rovers, while ICT have to wait until the Sunday, as they head to Tynecastle to face Hearts on the 29th of July.

Unlike most competitions, the BetFred Cup has a different point-scoring system for the group phase. There are still three points for a win, but a point for a draw can be enhanced with a bonus point, following a penalty shoot-out after full-time.

The eight group winners all qualify (joining Celtic, Aberdeen, Rangers and Hibs in the next draw). Also qualifying are the four best runners up from all eight pools (north and south).

The final is set for Sunday the 2nd of December.