SAINTS ROOKIES READY FOR EVOLUTION CLASHES

Buddies B team learn their fixtures for the new-look Challenge Cup

- COLIN PATERSON

St Mirren's stars of tomorrow will face six SPFL clubs this season in a new-look competition.

The draw was made yesterday for the league phase of the KDM Evolution Trophy which has been traditionally known as the Challenge Cup.

And the Buddies 'B' team are now gearing up to face League One and League Two opposition.

Over six matchdays, Saints' kids will take on Dumbarton, Alloa Athletic, Annan Athletic, Hamilton Accies, Kelty Hearts and Stranraer.

The Buddies - like all of the other Premiership B sides involved - will play their fixtures away from home.

The first stage is similar to that of the formats in the UEFA Champions League, Europa League and Conference League.