We look at some of the key players ahead of Saturday’s IRN-BRU Cup Final between Dumbarton and Inverness Caledonian Thistle at McDiarmid Park.
Andy Dowie (Dumbarton)
The Sons may be eighth in the Ladbrokes Championship but they've not conceded all that many goals. In fact, they've only let in four more than runaway leaders St Mirren. That's down to the stellar performance of many in the unit, including veteran Andy Dowie. The 34-year-old has featured in two previous Challenge Cup finals (both for Ross County) and that experience could prove vital.
Dimitris Froxylias (Dumbarton)
While Dumbarton’s defence has been strong, Stevie Aitken's side haven’t been the most prolific at the other end. Their return from the league campaign so far is 19 goals in 27 games, the same as bottom club Brechin City. As a result, they'll be hoping beyond hope that Dimitris Froxylias makes it to the game on Saturday. The Cypriot is playing for his national side but is determined to feature in the final. If he does, he's someone capable of producing a moment of magic out of nothing. Of his six goals this term, most have been long-range strikes of the highest order.
Kyle Hutton (Dumbarton)
Facing a side they are battling against to stay in the division, Dumbarton fans would like to see their team win, not just for the trophy and glory, but also to set down a marker for the rest of the season. In order to do that, they will need Hutton to excel in the centre of the park. The Sons seem to be at their best when Hutton is able to spray passes around and the ex-Rangers player has been in good form in recent weeks.
Coll Donaldson (Inverness Caley Thistle)
Having experienced challenges at Dundee United, both in the top flight and second tier, Donaldson has been a revelation since joining John Robertson's side. His physical attributes, the kind you would want in a centre-back, enable him to be a rock-like figure at the heart of the defence. Another man-of-the-match showing, one of many this term, would go a long way to ensuring a Caley Thistle victory.
Liam Polworth (Inverness Caley Thistle)
While Dumbarton will have aspirations of going out and taking the game to Inverness, they will be looking to keep things tight at the back as that has been the strength of their side this season. Caley Thistle's midfielders will therefore be charged with unlocking the door and providing chances for the strikers to finish. On his day, Polworth is one of the best players in the second tier, capable of either exploiting space in the final third with his passing or by charging through with the ball himself.
Iain Vigurs (Inverness Caley Thistle)
The experienced playmaker has a terrific range of passing and can score from anywhere inside 30 yards. If he's given time to dictate the play and probe for openings that would suggest the cup will be heading back up the A9. However, if Dumbarton can put him on the back foot then they could get some joy making late runs into the Caley Thistle penalty area.
