Under 20’s to begin defence of Irn Bru Cup

Rangers Under 20 side will kick off the club’s defence of the, newly-rebranded, Irn Bru Cup later this week at Forthbank when they take on Stirling University.

Should the “Swifts” pull off a win against the Lowland League side then a tie with Stenhousemuir awaits in the second round. This will be the Under 20’s first foray into senior competition and other Premiership development sides who have already appeared in the competition have had a mixed lot of results.

Shelly Kerr’s Uni side will pose a good challenge to the young Gers after they finished third in last season’s Lowland League and look to build on that and challenge recently relegated East Stirlingshire for the chance to play in the SPFL. Stirling, until recently, played their home games at Forthbank; moving to the Falkirk Stadium this season, and will be more than familiar with their surroundings for what is Rangers’ home tie.

The game will also be a good opportunity for some of the younger players the step up and try impress Mark Warburton and Davie Weir who will be taking a keen interest in how they fare against senior opposition. Youngsters like Ross & Robbie McCrorie, Liam Burt and recent loan signing David Bates will be hopeful good performances in the Irn Bru Cup will lead to first team opportunities.

Kick-off is at 7.30pm on Wednesday and entry is £5 for adults and £3 for kids and concessions.