This week, the Scottish league cup gets underway as Dundee United takes a trip to league two outfit Kelty Hearts in the group stages. The match schedules for Friday at the New Central Park, with kickoff at 9:45 pm.
The two sides are drawn in Group B alongside Arbroath, East Fife, and Elgin City, who faced against each other in the previous group stages last season.
Kelty Hearts head into their first major competition in the Scottish league after securing promotion from the Lowlands league back in May.
Even though the previous season was cut short due to coronavirus that reduced the league matches to 13, the Jambos still earned their promotion. The playoff semi-finals came with a 6-1 aggregate win over Brora Rangers. In addition, Jambos moved on to defeat Brechin City in League Two play-off final.
It was a major positive sign for the camp, but it was a low note when manager Barry Fergusson moved on to join Alloa Athletic. His replacement was 36-year-old Kevin Thomson, as he gets his first managerial role.
On the other hand, Dundee United secured their stay in Scotland’s top flight last season. The side finished off at ninth place and eight points clear from the bottom two. The side has only had one pre-season-friendly heading into this campaign. However, history remains intact after lifting the league cup in 1979 and 1980.
Kelty Hearts vs. Dundee United Head
Both sides have one match against each other, with Dundee United taking home a win. Here is a look at their previous encounters:
Home
- Kelty Hearts 1-1 Montrose
- Kelty Hearts 2-3 Patrick Thistle
- Brenchin City 0-1 Kelty Hearts
- Kelty Hearts 2-1 Brenchin City
- Kelty Hearts 2-3 Stranraer
Away
- Brechin City 1-4 Dundee United
- Mirren 0-0 Dundee United
- Dundee United 0-0 Motherwell
- Dundee United 0-2 Hibernian
- Aberdeen 0-2 Dundee United
Kelty Hearts Team News
New signing Andy Black from Edinburg City could earn his first match in a defensive role. Another fellow signing is left-back Reis Peggie, who slides into the side. Captain Michael Tisder will maintain his role in the midfield alongside Thomas Reilly.
Dundee United Team News
Veteran and 36-year-old Charlie Mulgrew recently rejoined the camp and will get the nod to start in defense. Other defensive options available for selection include Ryan Edwards and Mark Reynolds.
Prediction and Odds
The high quality for the opponents gives them an upper hand against their hosts, who find it hard to transition in the attack.
- Dundee United Win
- Goals Over 2.5
- Most Goals: 2H
