For the first time in a good while, Celtic look to have real competition for the SPL title. Last season city rivals Rangers looked a threat but ended up finishing the campaign nine points behind the perennial Scottish champions.
However, Neil Lennon’s team are now just two points ahead of the Gers heading into Wednesday’s visit to Kilmarnock.
The Hoops will be looking to bounce back after a 2-1 home loss to Rangers last time out. The defeat has put real pressure on the reigning champions. Prior to the defeat against their old firm rivals, Celtic had won 11 SPL games in a row, scoring at least two goals in each of the wins.
💬 "We think it’s a good draw, but on the day, we have to turn up and earn the right to win." #ScottishCup— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) January 20, 2020
💬 "We think it’s a good draw, but on the day, we have to turn up and earn the right to win." #ScottishCup
The visitors at least can shout about a good recent away record, as Lennon’s team have won their last four SPL matches on their travels. Unsurprisingly, Celtic have also scored at least twice in all four away victories in the Scottish top-flight.
When it comes to previous meetings between these two teams, Celtic have dominated, winning four of the last six encounters in all competitions with Killie.
Kilmarnock are currently seventh in the SPL table, two points off the top-six. Alex Dyer’s team would have been in the top-six if it were not for some terrible recent form in the SPL.
Not only have the home side failed to win in seven league games, but they have also suffered five straight league defeats. Finding the net has proven a massive problem of late for Kilmarnock, as they have not scored in their last six SPL outings.
The home side has an inconsistent home record of late in the Scottish top-flight. However, a 1-0 loss against Motherwell in their last SPL match on home soil ended an eight-match unbeaten run on home soil in the league for Dyer’s team.
Forebet predicts more misery for Kilmarnock, with Celtic running out comfortable winners in a high-scoring clash.