Malone hoping to get one over on mate Imrie

Published on Saturday 21 November 2009 19:39

FRIENDSHIP will be cast aside for 90 minutes when Dundee face Inverness in today's Alba Cup final.

Dens Park defender Eddie Malone counts Caley's Dougie Imrie as one of his best friends, but intends showing no sign of cordiality to his opponent now the chance to win a trophy has emerged. Dundee face Caley at McDiarmid Park hoping to sweep up the first medals of the season, in front of what is expected to be the largest crowd in this competition for a number of years.

Malone said: "Dougie is one of my best mates in football. He's a great lad. We played together at Clyde, so we know each other really well. We had some great times there and we still keep in touch. Dougie used to play in front of me down the left so I know what he has to offer. On his day, Dougie can be a big threat to any opposition. We'll certainly have to keep a close eye on him on Sunday. His natural ability is amazing and he can beat a man with his touch and skill.

"I don't think it's any coincidence that Inverness's results have picked up since he came back into the team as they missed him when he was injured earlier in the season."

Dundee and Caley served up the most entertaining First Division game of the season when they drew 2-2 at Dens Park in August so another feast of football is anticipated.

Caley took some time to find their feet following relegation from the SPL last season but Malone knows they are now heading towards top form.

He said: "Inverness are a decent side with some good players. I think they struggled to adapt to life in the First Division at the start but have improved since and their results have proved that. There's been a buzz about the club all week. It would be a great boost to win the trophy."