Friendlies put Hibs in mood to progress

Neil Lennon hated pre-season clashes as a player – but says he has lapped up his Hibernian side’s displays during this term’s warm-up games.

The Easter Road boss believes his men are shaping up well after two friendly wins and a draw with Sunderland .

The Leith side now get down to competitive action when they kick off their Betfred Cup campaign at home to Montrose today. Lennon said: “I’ve been pleased so far. The players have done very well. We want to go as far in the competition as we can.”

Ross County host Alloa, with manager Jim Mcintyre out to avoid another sting as he explained: “Alloa got the better of us last season and that cannot happen again.”

Motherwell will be without Lewis Moult, who recently had a groin operation, against Queen’s Park at Hampden.berwick will be missing six players against visitors Morton, who give debuts to Gary Harkins, Bob Mchugh and Robert Thomson.

Hamilton visit Lowland League champions East Kilbride, with boss Martin Canning saying: “This will be a big day for our hosts.”

Stenhousemuir will be unrecognisable against Queen of the South, with only one survivor from last season.

Livingston host Partick Thistle and Stranraer manager Stevie Farrell welcomes his former club St Mirren, who fieldnewrecruitianmcshane.

Falkirk entertain Stirling Albion, while John Robertson starts a second stint in charge of Inverness Caledonian Thistle against a Brechin side who are down to 14 players.

Dunfermline hope to take care of Elgin and Peterhead have at least six new recruits facing visitors East Fife.