Celtic begin title defence against Motherwell

Champions Celtic will unfurl the SPL flag at home to Motherwell on the opening day of the 2004-05 season.

The Hoops take on Terry Butcher’s side on Saturday, August 7 while runners-up Rangers must make the longest trip of the season, to Aberdeen.

That Pittodrie clash marks the debut of new Dons boss Jimmy Calderwood, who succeeded the sacked Steve Paterson earlier this month.

Calderwood’s own replacement, Davie Hay, takes charge of Dunfermline for the first time that day at home to Dundee United.

Bank of Scotland Premier League newcomers Inverness Caledonian Thistle’s top flight debut arrives at Livingston in a fixture which also marks the managerial debut of Allan Preston, who succeeded Hay at Livi.

Hibernian also have a new manager in the shape of former Celtic defender Tony Mowbray and his first stint in the dugout will be in front of the Easter Road faithful, with Kilmarnock the visitors.

Dundee are at home to Hearts in the other opening day fixture.

The first Old Firm derby of the new campaign will not be long in coming as Celtic play hosts to their city rivals on Saturday August 28.

Rangers manager Alex McLeish will be under immense pressure to improve his side’s derby results following five defeats last season, including a Tennent’s Scottish Cup reverse.

Saturday November 20 has been set aside for an Ibrox derby and the third of the four Old Firm clashes will be at Parkhead on February 19.