Kilmarnock struck late to secure a brilliant win over Rangers with Marley Watkins the hero.
The home side matched their more expensively assembled opponents all over the pitch and created good chances throughout. It did look set to head for a goalless draw though until Watkins got on the end of David Watson’s hooked ball forward to provide the finish.
Killie have shown previously what they can do against both halves of the Old Firm and created some really good early opportunities, particularly for Watkins and Matty Kennedy. The latter just failed to make contact to a ball across goal when if he had it would have been a certain goal.
Robbie Deas thought he had given them the lead with a well-placed header but he was flagged offside and VAR then proved it was the correct call.
Marley Watkins gets Kilmarnock winner against Rangers
As a tight game opened up towards the end, Kennedy had another opportunity after robbing Jefte of the ball at half way after Rangers had been up for a set-piece. But Jack Butland held his effort comfortably.
The keeper could do nothing about Watkins’ winner though and Kilmarnock held on through the six minutes of stoppage time.
A superb collective effort from Derek McInnes‘ side but how did they rate individually?
Kilmarnock player ratings vs Rangers
Robby McCrorie 6 – Despite all of Rangers’ possession, the home keeper had a quiet enough first half against his old team. But made a smart stop to deny Dyriel Dessers early in the second. A heart-in-mouth moment from a corner but got away with it.
Lewis Mayo 7 – Played at right-back on his 100th appearance for the club. Solid and reliable as ever.
Robbie Deas 7 – Thought he had headed Killie into a priceless led but was rightly called offside. Carried out his defensive duties with diligence too.
Stuart Findlay 6 – Switched off a couple of times but mostly solid over the piece.
Corrie Ndaba 7 – Solid defensively and brought some quality too, especially a brilliant cross to lay one on a plate for Kennedy.
Danny Armstrong 6 – So often the Rugby Park side’s biggest threat and he certainly tried to be positive today.
Brad Lyons 7 – Knew he had fouled Mohamed Diomande ahead of what would otherwise have been a huge chance. But did a great job in defensive midfield and seemed to be everywhere at times.
Lewis Donnelly 7 – Tidy in possession and aggressive in the middle of the park.
Matty Kennedy 7 – Missed a glorious early chance but did try and get at the Rangers defence every time the opportunity arose.
Marley Watkins 7 – Should also have probably scored early on although Jack Butland did really well to recover. A quieter afternoon for the man who has been Killie’s biggest threat this season – until that priceless moment at the death.
Kyle Vassell 7 -Does lack a finesse and cutting edge at times but caused the Gers defence problems with his physicality and aggressive approach. Took a knock and had to be replaced.
Subs
Bruce Anderson 4 – On for Vassell to try and find a spark
Gary Mackay-Steven 4 – Likewise, in place of Armstrong.
David Watson 5 – Got the closing minutes and provided the assist for Watkins’ winner.
Jack Burroughs N/A – On at the death
Rory McKenzie N/A – On with Burroughs to see it out.