Raith Rovers manager Dougie Imrie: We can scoop £150k KDM Evolution Trophy jackpot
After today’s KDM Evolution Trophy draw handed Raith Rovers an away quarter-final against Queen’s Park – with the winners going through to play either Arbroath or Airdrieonians in the semi-finals – Stark’s Park gaffer Dougie Imrie has emphasised his belief that his Kirkcaldy outfit can go all the way in the competition.
The other two quarter-final ties – to be played on the midweek of January 27 and 28 – will see St Johnstone host Ayr United and Inverness Caledonian Thistle at home to Stenhousemuir.
A 50% increase in the prizemoney on offer in this season’s tournament will see the winners scoop £150,000 out of an estimated £1.25 million being shared among competing clubs.
And Raith boss Imrie told the Fife Free Press: “I think it's a tournament that anybody can win. From the Championship down, that's why it's there.
“I think the four teams, including ourselves, Queen's Park, Airdrie and Arbroath, have got a great opportunity to get to a final.
"So I think any of the last eight can certainly win the competition. St Johnstone, just with their form at the moment in the Championship, will probably be the favourites to go and win it.
"I think for any club, finances are always good. I think the sponsors have done amazingly well to up the prize winnings for everyone.
"But I think in any walk of life, to win something is always a great achievement. So regardless of whether the winnings are £150,000 or £1,000, to win a cup competition and have a winner's medal in your name, they don't come along often. So I think whoever wins it, to get a winner's medal is a great achievement.”