Dundee derby is prize tie
Tayside clubs to meet in League Cup in first Jute City clash since United were relegated
Dundee will face Dundee United in the stand-out fixture of the 2017 Betfred Cup group stage.
It will be the first meeting of the city rivals since Dundee’s dramatic 2-1 victory at Tannadice in May 2016 confirmed United’s relegation to the Championship.
For newly confirmed Dundee manager Neil Mccann, the game will form an intriguing part of his start in the job on a permanent basis next month.
Dundee and Dundee United are joined in Group C by Raith Rovers, Cowdenbeath and Highland League champions Buckie Thistle. The derby fixture, on a date and at a venue which will be confirmed early next week, is certain to be selected for live television coverage by BT Sport who again have exclusive rights to the revamped League Cup.
Last night’s draw also held the prospect of an Edinburgh derby but that failed to materialise as Hearts and Hibs found themselves in separate groups.
The Gorgie club, who will have to play their home games at a reduced capacity Tynecastle while construction continues on the new main stand, will face Dunfermline, Peterhead, East Fife and Elgin City in Group B.
Hibs are in Group D where their fixtures will include a rematch of the 2015-16 final against Ross County who defeated them 2-1 at Hampden in that match. Completing the group are Alloa, Arbroath and Montrose.