The University of Stirling will open their 2020-21 Lowland League season with a tough home encounter against East Kilbride.

Chris Geddes’ side will take on The Kilby at Forthbank Stadium on October 10 – seven months and 11 days after they beat Gretna 2008 1-0 in their final match of the 2019/20 campaign, cut short due to COVID-19.

The abrupt end to the season meant Stirling’s five remaining games were cancelled and the students placed 10th in the final league table.

Geddes is looking to improve on that position this season, which will begin behind closed doors due to the ongoing restrictions.

He said: “It was a disappointing end to a very good season for the team – we had been playing well and were confident going into those last five games. However, we’ve enjoyed a good break and pre-season has gone well so far – we’re really looking forward to getting back to league action against East Kilbride.

“It’s undoubtedly going to be a tough opener with both teams keen to get off to a good start.”

Last October, the students stunned East Kilbride in their fixture at K Park, with midfielder Craig Brown’s second-half strike giving Stirling all three points. 

The return fixture was one of those that was yet to be played when the season closed down.

While fans are not yet able to return to Lowland League matches, coverage will continue across the University of Stirling Football Club website and social media – including live updates from matches and match reports.