PAT WALKER feared Albion Rovers had missed out on their moment in the spotlight after Rangers passed them on their road up to Scotland's third tier this summer.

So the striker is determined the Cliftonhill side will make the most of their big chance this weekend when they go head-to-head with Ally McCoist's star-studded side.

Rovers' relegation to League Two last season means they will not benefit from bumper pay days and memorable trips to Ibrox on league duty this term.

They will, however, have the first crack at the new-look Gers when they kick-off their Ramsdens Cup campaign at Livingston's Global Energy Arena on Sunday.

Walker said: "As soon as the draw was made, all the boys started looking forward to it.

"It is great for the club. The chairman, the board and the fans deserve a big day like this. There has been a great atmosphere around the place.

"There was a feeling we had maybe missed the boat in regards to playing Rangers but that is the great thing about cup competitions, you get paired against teams in other leagues and can test yourself against them.

"I have never played against Rangers before, this will be my first time. It is the dream to play in games like this.

"You never know what can happen in cup games, sometimes you get the fairytale ending."

Sunday's clash will be a baptism of fire for new Rovers boss James Ward, who was appointed manager following the sacking of Todd Lumsden earlier this summer.

Walker said: "Pre-season is always high tempo because everyone is trying to impress and there are new boys in trying to make their mark.

"You don't get many harder first games as a manager than this. The way we have been preparing has been really professional, he has been driving a really good mentality in the squad.

"It is all about effort and work ethic and there is a good feeling around the club. I think everyone has really enjoyed it so far and long may it continue."