Shear Magic....

Caley Thistle's bright babes have started life in the SPL's new Under-20s League in sizzling style -- and at least one is poised to figure in the squad for Saturday's game with Celtic's Euro heroes.

And coach Duncan Shearer is excited about the potential in his team.

Liam Polworth, who has just stepped up from the under-18s, scored the goal which beat St Johnstone 1-0 at Macdiarmid Park on Tuesday -- Liam's late volley giving no chance to former Caley Jags keeper Johnny Tuffey, now at Saints.

That's two in two for Polworth as the under-17 international cap also netted in last week's 3-2 win over Hearts at Inverness. Josh Meekings also netted as did 17 year old Calum Ferguson.

"Wee Calum's from Inverness and has come through our youth system and I've got very high hopes for him", says Shearer.

"Gavin Morrison played in the centre of midfield as one of the two over-age players we're now allowed in the new setup, the other being Richie Foran, who played at centre half to keep tuned up during his first team suspension.

"Morrison and Conor Pepper, the young Irish lad who has great energy levels on and off the ball, did themselves no harm in terms of possibly being in line for the squad to face Celtic, with Foran and Owain Tudur Jones suspended. Maurice Malpas was a very interested spectator.

"It's nice to start with a couple of good wins, but it's all about helping the players to develop."

Shearer is strongly behind the Under-20 League as better for players than the previous Under-19 League. "We've actually got virtually the same squad, so that's good for the lads", he said.

"I've noticed a big difference in Steven MacKenzie and Andrew Skinner this season, they've come on significantly from last year.

"The Under-20 League also allows youngsters to play in their home stadium -- so that when they get their first team call, they're no stranger to the pitch.

"And introducing two over-age players gives a game to first teamers coming back from injury or suspension. It also gives us leaders on the pitch which is a big help to the younger players."

The Under 20s next home game is on Tuesday 4th September against Kilmarnock.