Buffscan Cashand carryoff titlerace

MAY 8, 2004 will be etched in Kilwinning Rangers’ folklore for eternity.

Having overturned a 2-1 first-half deficit to trounce rivals Cumnock 7-3 at a bulging Abbey Park, the Buffs clinched their first and only Super League title.

For edge-of-the-terracing drama it just doesn’t get more exhilarating.

So to say today’s clash with reigning champs Glenafton is the most important league game Abbey Park has seen since is some statement.

But that’s the feeling down Kilwinning way with the Buffs top of the pile after a seven-game winning run.

Chris Strain’s men saw out 2017 with a statement 1-0 victory over Auchinleck then welcomed in 2018 with a 2-1 win at Hurford.

And the three goalscorers who secured those six points are proof of why the 33-1 rank outsiders at the start of the season must be seen as serious title contenders now.

Bryan Boylan, Carlo Monti and David Winters have the ability to give any backline a run for their money.

Should they complete an Ayrshire treble today even an ardent Irvine Meadow fan would have to concede Kilwinning are in pole position for the league title.

One man who knows all about banging in goals for the Buffs is Ian Cashmore who struck more than 100 for them, including a hattrick in that 7-3 win.

Now at Dalry, the man dubbed “Cash Converter” by fans said: “Kilwinning have got themselves in a great position and are playing well.

“I see a lot of people saying Saturday is the biggest home game since Cumnock in 2004 and they could be right.

“I’ll never forget that afternoon. We were 2-1 down and came back to win 7-3 – the crowd was rocking.

“And that’s the thing with the Buffs – when the team are performing the crowd will always back them.”

Kilwinning are hoping to break through the 1000 barrier a week after Pollok’s 5-0 win over Arthurlie pulled in 1125 to Newlandsfield.

Only four SPFL matches attracted bigger gates than the Southside Clasico.

It’s great to see punters backing the juniors, particularly during the Premiership winter break.

And for six quid entry – five at the lower levels – few can complain they don’t get value for money.