And, although they are likely to come up against lesser opposition, boss Craig Levein makes no excuses for sending his first-team squad to the west coast.

“It’s a competition I like and the format — five half-hour games — suits us perfectly for what we need at this stage of the season,” said Craig.

“It allows me to take a squad over there and give everyone a game. That’s something we couldn’t do in a 90-minute match.

“Although we may be facing some lower division teams and some youth teams, it’s a hard day and it’s never easy to score goals.

“It worked well for us last year and, hopefully, we’ll get the same benefit this year.”

One man who wasn’t in the travelling party which set off this afternoon was Garry Kenneth. The big defender has a knee problem, which required an injection, although the manager expects him to be fine for the start of next week.

Conor Grant (19) will provide back-up to goalie Banks.

The Tangerines, who won the trophy last season, kick off their quest to retain the title with a game against Alloa (KO 11.40).

St Johnstone are also taking part and they are involved in the opening game against hosts Oban Saints (KO 11 am).

Hearts and Hamilton are the other teams entered for the round-robin tourney, which goes ahead at Mossfield Stadium, Oban, and lasts until tea-time. Entry is £3.