Kilmarnock 3 - 4 Rangers
(SPL Under 21 match - Rugby Park, 12th January 2004, 7.00pm Kick Off)

Killie gave a run out to some first team squad members as they took on Rangers in front of a larger than normal crowd. The stands had a healthy splattering of agents and managers with Gus MacPherson, Andy Millen and Billy Stark checking out the talent on show. Killie welcomed back Dillon and Dargo from injury and both had a significant part to play in a highly entertaining game.

The opening period gave no indication of the fireworks ahead - it was the 18th minute before I put pen to paper with Killie creating two clear cut chances in the space of thirty seconds. Murray released Boyd through on goal but the big striker could only fire his shot straight at McGregor. Killie won back possession immediately and Invincibile's cut back picked out Dargo whose shot was well held by the keeper.

Rangers had a decent chance two minutes later but Ostenstad's control was poor and Smith was able to gather. Two minutes later Killie were in front with Dargo making a scoring return. The striker looked suspiciously offside as Invincibile threaded a neat pass but he kept his cool and fired home into the left hand corner.

Play was now flowing from end to end and in 26 minutes Rangers equalised in controversial circumstances. An Ostenstad 25 yarder was only parried out by Smith and Dillon and Duffy skid in for the loose ball. The Killie defender appeared to win the ball and turn it round for a corner however the referee amazed everyone by pointing to the spot. To rub salt in the wound he then booked Dillon before McCormack sent Smith the wrong way from the resultant kick.

One minute later and Dillon was heading down the tunnel and it sounded like he smashed in a door on the way down. The left back went in late on Duffy as the striker raced down the right wing. He never caught the Rangers man but the man in black adjudged the intent was there and gave Dillon his second yellow card.

Killie rolled up their sleeves and regained the lead in the 32nd minute. A lovely through ball from Dodds saw Invincibile race in on goal and slide the ball under the advancing keeper. Dargo came close shortly after but his lob hit the top of the bar and bounced over.

The visitors were quick off the block in the second half and equalised in 48 minutes. Ostenstad made progress on the right and his cross found McCormack unmarked on the six yard line and he gave Smith no chance.

Rangers were exploiting the room on the left caused by Dillon's departure and in 56 minutes they went in front. Killie lost possession on the halfway line and the through ball found Walker bursting into the box. He took his time before clipping the ball into the left corner from 12 yards. Hutton then had the ball in the net with a 20 yard drive but the linesman's flag cut short the celebrations.

Killie then came right back into the game and a McGregor mistake should have been punished however McLaughlin and Boyd failed to capitalise with the keeper posted missing.

In 66 minutes Killie's endeavour was rewarded with a fine equaliser. Wee Murray worked hard to gain possession on the right side of the box and when he crossed over Boyd smashed a volley into the roof of the net from eight yards.

Tired legs were beginning to play a part and Rangers snatched the winner with two minutes remaining. A corner kick landed at the feet of McLeod who hooked home from 12 yards despite the brave efforts of Canning on the goal line.

Despite the result Killie battled well and it was the loss of Dillon that ultimately cost us the game. Dargo played very well in his first game back and he was ably supported by Dodds, Murray and Invincibile. McCormack, Walker and Kalenga were best for the visitors and I'd like to give a special word to the referee - shite.

Kilmarnock:  Smith, McGregor, Dillon , McLaughlin, Cochrane, Canning, Invincibile, Dodds, Boyd (Masterton 76), Dargo (Gilroy 58), Murray (Naismith 67)
Subs (not used): Bell, Sangster

Rangers: McGregor, Hutton, Coyle, (McKenzie 45), Dowie, McLeod, Nerlinger, Walker, Kalenga, Duffy (Johnston 82), Ostenstad, McCormack
Subs (not used): Trialist, Watson, Dick

Match Report © Sandy Armour
Match Photos © Sandy Ferguson