Rangers head to Rugby Park for a clash against Kilmarnock knowing they’ll have to overcome a trio of ex-players and a dodgy record to keep their title tilt on track.
The Ibrox club have been on relentless post-winter break form under Philippe Clement with nine straight wins – including seven in the league – hauling the Gers to the top of the Scottish Premiership.
But Kilmarnock have proven stubborn Old Firm opposition this season with the last trip to Ayrshire ending in a 1-0 opening day defeat for Michael Beale.
That was Rangers’ fifth defeat at Rugby Park since coming back up to the Premiership under Mark Warburton with the club’s record in Ayrshire making for abysmal reading.
Abysmal Rangers v Kilmarnock record laid bare
Since returning to the top flight, Rangers have visited Rugby Park and Kilmarnock twelve times.
On top of the aforementioned five defeats, Rangers have drawn three of trips, meaning the club has won only four times at the ground with a win rate of 33%.
In recent seasons the club has arrested the form – the Gers won only one of their first seven trips to Rugby Park after promotion – with three of the wins coming on Rangers’ last five trips to Kilmarnock.
Having defeated Kilmarnock 3-1 at Ibrox on the last meeting between the sides, Rangers will have confidence going into the tie but they can take nothing for granted.
Kilmarnock have also defeated Celtic twice this season – both times at Rugby Park – whilst a last minute equaliser at Parkhead helped propel the Gers to the top of the league.
Ex-Ibrox stars crucial at Rugby Park
If Rangers are to overcome Kilmarnock in Ayrshire, then they will need to defeat three former Ibrox stars who have found a home at Rugby Park.
Former Ibrox midfielder Derek McInnes has proven himself a shrewd operator since taking over as manager of Killie in the Championship and relishes taking on the Old Firm.
Lewis Mayo – who came through the Rangers Academy – is an influential member of the Kilmarnock team and is expected to start on the visit of his former club.
Then there is 55-winning ex-Rangers attacker Greg Stewart, who joined Kilmarnock in January after leaving Indian Super League side Mumbai City.
Kilmarnock have proven that they are one of the Premiership’s best teams this season and Rangers will need to ensure a top performance to secure victory.
