The Spartans continue their KDM Evolution Trophy group stage campaign on Tuesday night when they welcome Hamilton Academical to the Vanloq Community Stadium.
Paul Thomson will take charge of the side for this Match Day 3 tie, with Sporting Director Mixu Paatelainen once again taking up his traditional observational perch on the balcony.
Spartans going into the game unbeaten following a 2-2 draw against East Fife and a 5-0 win over Hearts B.
Meanwhile, early SPFL 1 leaders Hamilton’s KDM experiences have been less favourable than their league campaign, with defeats against Celtic B and Edinburgh City so far.
The tournament will once again continue to allow Spartans to showcase our Academy Pathway talent with a few changes to the squad from Saturday’s clean sheet victory over Stirling Albion anticipated.
Tonight’s tie is just the third time the sides have met.
During the planning stage of the Spartans Foundation, the team were invited to New Douglas Park in December 2004 to play on Hamilton’s newly laid ‘field-turf’ as the Foundation looked to test different surfaces. Whilst a different surface was installed in the end, Spartans were grateful for the opportunity to take on a strong Accies side who edged the game 2-1.
The other occasion was in the Ronnie Swan Challenge Cup Final in July 2009 – the first tournament to be held in Spartans new ground.
Both sides reached the Final following penalty shoot-out wins after 2-2 draws. Hamilton defeating Raith Rovers, whilst Spartans overcame Raith Rovers.
Spartans defeated the then Premier League side Hamilton 2-0 to secure the silverware. A first half strike from Dean Hoskins and an 88th minute wonderful solo goal from Chris Smith sealed the victory.
Tonight’s game kicks-off at 7.45pm.
Tickets are available on Fanbase (Pay at the gate also available). Please remember to update your Fanbase app following its recent update. Prices: Adults £10. Concessions (16-18, Students and Over 65s) £6. Youth (15 & under) £2. 12 & under Free. Kids must be accompanied by an Adult.
Café Bar will be open from 6.45pm.
