FALKIRK have made a flying start under new boss John McGlynn and a win at Bonnyrigg Rose would take them a big step towards the knockout stages of the Premier Sports Cup.
The Bairns ruined one of my bets by holding Morton to a draw in their group opener but got back in my good books by shocking Hibs on match day two after I had backed them in the handicaps.
That has left the League One side just a point behind the Hibees having played a game fewer so a victory against Rose would leave McGlynn's side in good shape to qualify as either the group winner or one of the best runners-up.
Hibs were too strong for Bonnyrigg on Sunday (below) but Robbie Horn's men still managed to score to bring up my BTTS bet. Rose also won at Clyde in their group opener so they will know a win over Falkirk could keep their qualification hopes alive.
Bonnyrigg are gearing up for their first season in the SPFL after romping to the Lowland League title last season then crushing Cowdenbeath in the play-off final.
They are a team that's used to winning and Rose will be looking to follow in the footsteps of Cove Rangers and Kelty Hearts, who have climbed up the pyramid and now play in the Championship and League One respectively.
That makes Bonnyrigg Rose dangerous opponents for Falkirk and it will be fascinating to see how McGlynn's new-look side fares at New Dundas Park.
How the bookies view it
This is a tough one to call and it's reflected in the odds with Bonnyrigg slight favourites at a best 31/20 with Betfair and Falkirk priced 13/8 with the same firm. The draw could be the best option and that pays 13/5 at Unibet.
Head to head
These teams have never played against one another, which is no surprise with Bonnyrigg only just joining the SPFL ranks.
Players to watch
Kevin Smith scored a stunning goal for Bonnyrigg Rose against Hibs on Sunday and that should be enough to earn him another start up front. McBookie usually have scorer prices for these Premier Sports Cup games but I've yet to see any for this game.
Gary Oliver has led the line for both of Falkirk's group games and will be desperate to get off the mark after drawing a blank so far.
Anything else catch the eye?
It's hard to predict if this will be a thriller or a snorefest as goals have been flying in during Bonnyrigg's group games while Falkirk's two matches have produced just a single goal. But I'm more inclined to go for a cagey game as the teams are pretty evenly matched. Under 2.5 goals looks the best shout at 43/40 with Bet365 while the half-time draw also appeals at 13/10 with Unibet.
The Bairns look a little overpriced after beating a Hibs side that comfortably saw off Bonnyrigg at New Dundas Park. They are 4/5 with William Hill to win either half and that could be a good option.
This Scottish League Cup match between Bonnyrigg Rose and Falkirk will be played on Jul 20, 2022 and kick off at 19:45. Check below for our tipsters best Bonnyrigg Rose vs Falkirk prediction. You may also visit our dedicated betting previews section for the most up to date previews.
