COWDENBEATH start their season this Saturday with a game which manager Jimmy Nicholl sees as very important in the scheme of things.

Brechin City come to Central Park in the Petrofac Training Cup first round and the League One side will be out to claim a big Championship scalp.

But Mr Nicholl (pictured) sees the game as an opportunity to build confidence for the Championship season coming up and also the chance to progress in a competition which could bring money to the club.

The manager was delighted with the attitude of his team in Northern Ireland on Saturday although he was a little disappointed with the way the second period went.

Looking back to Tuesday's game,, the 1-4 defeat to St Mirren, there was a lot to please him but some disappointing factors.

Although it was only in the second-half, afgter a raft of substitutions by Cowden, that Saints took over.

The 1-0 win was a good return against one of Northern Ireland’s strongest sides and Mr Nicholl said, “The opening 45 minutes was a good performance from the lads, with some sharp moves posing real problems for Linfield.

“The goal came from a very good piece of work by us and there could have been others.

“However, after the interval our passing became a little slack and we too often gave the ball away which is something we will be working on.” New ‘keeper Robbie Thomson played the full 90 minutes and recorded a shut-out and the boss commented, “He commanded his box well and did all that was asked of him which was excellent.

“He played the whole game as Thomas Flynn was set to play the full 90 minutes against St Mirren and showed enough to suggest we have two top quality ‘keepers on board.” The manager feels that the squad is ready to take on Brechin in the Petrofac Challenge Cup competition although his loan striking signings are unlikely to be taking part in this match or the League Cup first round tie with Clyde next Saturday.

“The agreement with the two Premiership sides who are going to supply these players is geared to the Championship campaign so we will look to Sean Higgins and Craig Johnston to lead the challenge against Brechin.

“Sean had a good work-out on Saturday against Linfield and along with young Craig caused them plenty of problems.

“They will be ready to do their bit for the team on Saturday and of course we will be looking to get goals from all areas of the team not just the front two.” He added, “This tournament is a very important one, from my point of view, as it can help building confidence and also lead to cash coming in to the club the further you go in it.

“We have everything pretty well in place and we know what our shape will be.” Although Thomas O’Brien missed Saturday’s game with a groin strain he is expected to be fit for this Saturday and the manager is certain to rely on the 3-5-2 system which worked so well for the club last season.

City have an experienced squad who finished last season strongly in League One so this will be a highly competitive cup-tie.