MARK Russell expects Petrofac Cup opponents Dumbarton to be a step up on the opposition Morton faced last season.

Newly-promoted Ton host a fellow Championship outfit tomorrow in their first competitive match of the 2015-16 campaign.

Although he is anticipating a testing cup tie against a new-look Sons side, Russell reckons the Greenock men are ready for the big kick-off after a demanding pre-season schedule.

The 19-year-old told the Tele: “I’ve seen that Stevie Aitken has made a few signings, and I’d imagine they will be a better team, and more organised, than teams in League One.

“But I definitely think we are ready. We’ve played a lot of games in pre-season, a lot of harder games, so we’re looking forward to the season starting.” Meanwhile, a Morton XI expected to be made up of development squad players face Greenock Juniors in a challenge match at Ravenscraig tonight.

Kick-off is 7.30pm and admission prices are: Adults £4, Concessions and Children up to 16 £2, while children under five will gain free entry.

There will also be opportunities for supporters to take a photo with the SPFL League One trophy.