SHIRE FACE AYR CHALLENGE

Shire have been drawn at home to Second Division Ayr United in the first round of the 2008/09 Challenge Cup.

The tie will also prove the first test of the club's new groundshare arrangement with Stenhousemuir, who have also been given a home match, against Albion Rovers.

Obviously, both clubs will be unable to play at 3pm on Saturday 26th July, which is the time and date set aside by the League for the games to be played.

An arrangement with Stenhousemuir and the SFL will have to be worked out.

Ayr United will prove a stern test; their manager, Brian Reid, has already made a number of pre-season signings including Elgin City left-back, Alan Dempsie and Alloa midfielder, Scott Agnew.

It will also allow Shire's summer signing, David Dunn, the chance to prove something against his old club.