AUCHINLECK TALBOT have drawn Hermes in the second preliminary round of this year’s William Hill Scottish Cup.

Tommy Sloan’s men were given a first-round bye in the draw made by Real Sociedad manager David Moyes hours before his side lined up against Celtic at St Mirren Park.

However, Talbot – winners of the Scottish Junior Cup last season – face a trip into the unknown.

Sloan, who takes his team to Bridge of Don for the eagerly-awaited tie, said: “First impressions are that it will be a tough match.

“There are a lot of good teams in the North Region and if Hermes have won their league then they will definitely be a threat.

“As always, though, we will do our homework on our opponents nearer the time to ensure we go up there fully prepared.”

Sloan, who enjoyed a successful senior career with the likes of Ayr United, Kilmarnock and Stranraer, insisted he loves the romance of the Scottish Cup.

He said: “It is just one of those competitions that captures the imagination of everyone.

“I loved it as a player. In fact, I actually received an award for joint top scorer one season, so I have fond memories.

“It is a big thing for Talbot to be in it and it would be nice to win our tie up in Bridge of Don and then perhaps draw a glamour match later on.

“Mind you, Hermes will be thinking the exact same way, so there is a bit of work to be done before we can start dreaming.

“We are looking forward to taking part in the Scottish Cup. We have been in it before and it is a special competition.”

Girvan will be in action in the first preliminary round of this year’s competition.

They face a tricky trip to Kirkintilloch to face Harestanes Amateurs, who play at Merkland Playing Fields.

If they manage to overcome that hurdle, they will square up to Lothian Thistle, again away from home, in the second preliminary round.

First-round ties are scheduled to take place on Saturday, August 15, with round two on Saturday, September 5.