| The former Dundee United defender was sent off against Forfar West End last week, but the Thomson Park side have appealed the red card clearing the way for Abbot to feature against the Lothian side.
His inclusion somewhat offsets the loss of defender Colin Watson, who has damaged ankle ligaments, and striker Gary Middleton, who is completing a ban.
And manager Ray McKinnon is confident he has the pool to cope with the historic occasion, which sees Lochee and Bathgate compete in the senior competition for the first time.
“It’s a blow having these two unavailable and the players are devastated to miss out, but I’m confident we still have enough quality in the squad to win the game,” said Ray.
“Bathgate will be tough opponents, there is no doubt about that. They have vast experience all over the park, but we have home advantage and we’ll be looking to make that count.
“We also have a young, hungry side here and, although we’ve been involved in many big games in the recent past, I’ve noticed an edge in training this week and I think the players are bursting to get going.”
The second-round draw, which will include Third Division teams, takes place at Thomson Park after the game, which kicks off at 2.30.
“That’s definitely an added incentive for us to get through,” said Ray. |
