ACCRINGTON Stanley’s Checkatrade Trophy opponents have been confirmed after West Brom’s Under-21s were drawn into the same group as the Reds.

John Coleman’s side will take on the Baggies youngsters along with Blackpool and Macclesfield Town in Group C.

The top sides qualify for the first knockout stage which is also regionalised.

The fixtures have yet to be released but Stanley will definitely host West Brom as all Under-21 sides play their group matches away from home.

The first group stage game takes place the first week in September. Matchday two is the week beginning October 8 with the final fixtures taking place the week beginning November 12.

Stanley will be able to call on any players on loan at National League clubs following a tweak in the rules.

Group games that end in a draw will go straight to penalties with the winners being awarded an extra point

The knockout stages are regionalised until the quarter finals.

All knockout rounds up to the final are decided by penalties if they’re level after 90 minutes while the final will go to extra-time and potentially penalties if level at full time.

Stanley progressed from the group stage last season before losing 3-2 to eventual winners Lincoln City in the first knockout stage.

This year’s final takes place on Sunday, February 24, at Wembley Stadium.