We kicked off our season in the torrential rain against Inverness on Saturday in our Viaplay Cup group E opener in what was always going to be a tough game. Championship opposition and last season’s Scottish Cup finalists, that however didn’t stop a full supporters bus making the 300 mile round trip, full of optimism.

It was the worst possible start as Aaron Doran took advantage of a defensive error to brilliantly finish past Paddy Martin. Despite the early set back, Rose grew into the game and created a few chances of their own. Neil Martyniuk had the ball in the net from a corner but the referee ruled it out for a foul on the goalkeeper. Dean Watson was also booked for simulation after being brought down in the box, the striker bemused at the decision.

Despite Rose threatening and looking good value for an equaliser, it was another moment of magic from Doran that doubled Caley’s lead five minutes before the break. A real blow after a very bright spell from Rose after going behind early doors.

Into the second half and both teams continued to play some good stuff, despite the pounding the pitch was taking from the heavy downpour. Admittedly, it was Rose Player of the Match Paddy Martin who was the busier of the two keepers, pulling off some stunning saves, however Rose did carry a threat in the final third.

The travelling faithful would eventually have something to celebrate as substitute Keiran McGachie nodded in a Conor Doan free kick. Ultimately the goal came too late and was nothing more than a consolation however there were plenty of positives to take from the game, which gaffer Robbie Horn also alluded too in his post match interview at the Caley Stadium.

Attention now turns to Tuesday evening as we welcome Dundee to NDP. The games are now coming thick and fast and they don’t get any easier, from Championship opposition to Premiership opposition. Despite that, Saturday’s performance should give encouragement and belief that on our day we can cause anyone problems.

Dundee had a free weekend and therefore Tuesday will be their first Viaplay Cup group game. They did however arrange a pre season friendly against Cove Rangers and ran out 1-0 winners thanks to a Zak Rudden strike. That win rounded off an unbeaten pre season for the Dee as they also recorded wins against Brechin City, Bray Wanderers, Fleetwood Town and Arbroath.

There have been a number of new additions at Dens since Tony Docherty took the reins following Gary Bowyers departure. One of those will definitely be familiar to Rose fans, a certain Charlie Reilly who swapped Coatbridge for Dundee last month.

With a new manager, a host of new players and the prospect of playing Premiership football this season, another tough test awaits on Tuesday evening. That said, another performance like Saturday and a packed NDP under the lights could see the Rose surprise the side from Dens.

Home supporters will be able to PATG on Tuesday evening, prices are set at £15, £10, £5. Don’t worry if you’re unable to make it to NDP on Tuesday. We will bring all of the action to you via Rose TV. You can purchase your live stream costing £10 HERE

We can’t wait to see you all back at NDP for the first time (competitively) this season. Make sure you don’t miss any of the action at the Boomtown Bernabeu this season by getting your season ticket ahead of the League opener against Dumbarton on August 5th. You can purchase your season ticket online, with instalment option available HERE. We’ll also announce in person sales dates/times in due course.

As for Tuesday, Mon the Rose!

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