ST MIRREN face a tricky away trip to Dunfermline tonight in the Co-op Insurance Cup and Gus MacPherson believes there is no way the Pars can be classed underdogs going into the tie.

The Saints head to Fife on the back of a 1-1 draw with Falkirk at the weekend and MacPherson is keen to make an impact in the competition this season.

"I think they have got more players that have played at a higher level than we have," said MacPherson. "Players that have represented their country.

"Jim McIntyre has brought in fresh faces like Andy Kirk and Graham Bayne, guys with good experience who know how to play.

"They also have Scott Wilson and Greg Shields, good experienced professionals. It will be a tough game."

MacPherson revealed he tried to sign McIntyre last year to benefit from his experience so he knows the Dunfermline boss will have his players well prepared.

The Paisley club did not have the financial muscle to prise McIntyre away in 2007 and the former Dundee United forward later took over from Stephen Kenny when the Irishman was sacked as manager last season.

And MacPherson expects the nous of his former Kilmarnock team-mate and the quality of Dunfermline's squad to make it a tough night.

"We tried to bring Jim in at the start of last season, we were looking for an experienced striker to come in and help with the younger players," the St Mirren manager said.

"But financially we couldn't compete with Dunfermline.

"Knowing him from the time I played with him, he has a lot of knowledge and experience and he is now passing that on.

"The First Division is a good division to learn in if you get results," MacPherson said. "He has made an impact."