By Martin Morgan

Last updated 11:43, Wednesday, 25 June 2008

WORKINGTON Reds could face prospective Scottish League outfit Spartans in the pre-season Annan Athletic tournament final following the withdrawal of FA Trophy holders Ebbsfleet United.

The Blue Square Premier outfit have cancelled their mini tour of Scotland, following changes at board level, and are now heading for a similar competition in the West Country.

Reds had been due to face Stranraer on Saturday, June 19, in the tournament’s opener but will now play Annan at noon. Stranraer take on Spartans at 3.15pm.

The two losing sides will play each other on the Sunday at noon and the winners will contest the Scottish Brewers Challenge Cup final at 3.15pm.

“Spartans are very much an unknown quantity,” said Reds director Alec Graham. “I’ve watched a couple of East of Scotland games and the standard is difficult to judge.

“I’d like to think we are a slightly higher standard then Spartans and Annan, and that we are No 2 in the tournament, with Stranraer possibly No 1 as they are in the Scottish Second Division.”

Edinburgh-based Spartans are one of five clubs vying for the Scottish League place vacated by Gretna.