The new season starts on Saturday when we face Hibernian at Forthbank in Group C of the Betfred Cup, kick-off 3.00pm.

Team news: Defender Gareth Rodger is unavailable and Jordan Lowdon and James Creaney also missed Monday’s friendly defeat to Hamilton Accies. Manager Kevin Rutkiewicz has brought in 10 new players this summer and has not ruled out further additions. He plans to give everyone game time in the Betfred Cup ties against Hibs, Arbroath and Alloa.

Past meetings: There have been a few friendlies in recent years but this is the first competitive meeting since Hibs beat us 3-2 in a Scottish Cup tie in the Forthbank fog in February 2001. Two years previously we claimed a shock 2-1 win in a Scottish Cup replay while Hibs won the last League Cup clash 3-0 at McDiarmid Park in August 1991 en route to lifting the trophy.

Opponents: Hibernian beat Carlisle United 4-3 in a friendly on Tuesday, where they were backed by more than 1,000 fans. Manager Paul Heckingbottom has this summer signed Scott Allan (Celtic), Adam Jackson (Barnsley), Joe Newell (Rotherham United), Christian Doidge (Forest Green Rovers), Tom James (Yeovil Town) and Chris Maxwell (Preston North End, loan).

Format: There are eight groups, with the winners and four best runners-up progressing to the last 16, where they are joined by Celtic, Rangers, Kilmarnock and Aberdeen.

In the event of a draw: The game will be decided on penalty kicks, with the winning team receiving a bonus point.

Entry: Cash at the turnstiles – there are no tickets for this game.

Admission prices
Adults £14
Seniors (aged 65 and over) & students £10
Under 16s £5
Under 12s free (if accompanied by a paying adult)

Hibernian fans will occupy
East Stand (Turnstiles 7, 8, 9, 10)
South Terrace – uncovered (Turnstiles 11 & 12)
Contingency area in West Stand (Turnstiles 3 & 4)

Stirling Albion fans will occupy
West Stand (Turnstiles 1 & 2)

Turnstiles: Open at 2.00pm – fans are encouraged to arrive early to avoid queues.

Road closure: Due to the west-bound closure of Forthside Way for ongoing roadworks in the vicinity of Forthbank Stadium, a diversion is in operation. Delays are likely so please allow extra time for your journey.

Club shop: Find us in the West Stand. New away kit available

Programme: Betfred Cup double issue, priced £2

Referee: Greg Aitken

Weather: Forecast is for a warm and largely dry day

Next game: Stirling Albion v Arbroath – Wednesday July 17