Willie Collum has been appointed referee for Kilmarnock’s Premiership opener against Rangers.
You don’t have to go back far to find the last time Collum took charge of a Kilmarnock v Rangers clash. He was the official the last time the two side’s faced off, which just happened to be the last game of the 2018/19 campaign.
It wasn’t a game where his actions went unnoticed.
Collum made penalty decision that helped fulfill Kilmarnock’s Euro ambitions
Killie had to win their final day clash against Rangers to ensure they reached the Europa League qualifiers. The game was locked at 1-1 heading into the final 10 minutes.
As Killie’s Stephen O’Donnell made a charging run into the box, he went down via an alleged shirt pull. Collum controversially pointed to the spot.
Eammon Brophy wasn’t caring though. He stepped up to the spot and put away his penalty kick, ensuring Killie’s first European adventure in 18 years.
Unfortunately Collum’s late decision didn’t result in Killie going on a grand Europa League experience. Just a few weeks ago the Ayrshire side were shocked in the first round of qualifying by Connah’s Quay Nomads.
They’ve had a few weeks now to lick their wounds from that clash. Angelo Alessio will no doubt be eager for a positive result against the Glasgow side in his first domestic match as Kilmarnock boss.