COWDENBEATH have a really daunting task in tonight's Barrs Irn Bru Cup first round tie with Championship leaders Dundee United at Tannadice.

The Blues have started their League 2 campaign well but this will be a real step up in class for them.

When the teams met in the Betfred Cup in Dundee, in July, United wore down the Fifers with their swift movement and eventually won 4-1.

The league is clearly the number one priority for Cowdenbeath but they will be going to Tannadice to have a real go at their opponents.

With attacking midfielder Jack Whittaker recovering from a broken bone in his foot and left sided linkman or full-back Harvey Swann recovering from a foot knock plus centre-back David Syme suspended the Blue Brazil will be short of players yet again.

However, new signings, the Smiths, midfielders Bradley and Ali, will be ready for action with the former playing against his old club.

Manager Billy Brown feels that taking on full-time outfits at this early stage of the season  is always a struggle for part-time teams but he said: "A very difficult game but our young team is looking forward to the challenge and there is always a lot to learn from these sort of fixtures."

With Syme out it is likely Jamie Pyper will move from full-back to centre-half with Matt McInally stepping in at right back.

Elsewhere Robbie Buchanan may get a full run in an attacking role with either Ryan Connelly or Cammy Muirhead asked to lead the line. The game has a 7.45pm start.