We’ve got the Erwinning habit
No stopping Clarke’s men
The Rugby Park boss cut a contented figure after first-half goals from Lee Erwin and Stephen O’Donnell secured their latest three points.
Killie are now unbeaten in nine matches and have lost just one of their last 20 through an incredible run of form.
Clarke is thrilled the side has found several ways to win games and, although the hosts didn’t hit top gear, they made sure nothing was conceded to get the job done. He said: “It’s another win for us and that’s always a good habit to have.
“It wasn’t a great game, a bit scrappy. But I think all the moments of real quality came from us.
“We did what we had to do. If it had been an open game of football, I still think we would have won it.
“Hamilton are always dangerous opponents and they have proved that over a number of years now since they’ve been in the top flight. They can always spring a surprise.”
Clarke’s side were worthy of their win. The fact the manager had the luxury of leaving star men Youssouf Mulumbu and Jordan Jones out his line-up typified their strength.
He added: “We rotated our squad and it just shows how strong we are throughout. That’s that I want.”
Killie made a marvellous start and were on their way after just five minutes with a terrific strike from Erwin.
Eamonn Brophy, fresh from signing a new contract until 2021, fed O’Donnell and his deep cross was killed and finished in a single movement by the attacker as he held off young debutant Ronan Hughes.
The hosts were in control and Rory McKenzie cracked a volley just over as they chased a second goal.
Accies signalled a warning moments before the break when only a superb goalsaving challenge from Scott Boyd denied Antonio Rojano.
The value of that block was shown when Killie got a second goal before the halftime whistle.
O’Donnell’s long-distance volley after McKenzie’s corner wasn’t powerful, but the ball bobbled through a ruck of bodies and keeper Gary Woods couldn’t stop it from sneaking in.
Accies boss Martin Canning felt it was a freak, but Clarke said: “If you want to call Stephen’s goal a fluke, then fine.
“Lee’s certainly wasn’t a fluke. He has done really well for me and I have praised him a lot since I’ve been at the club.”
Accies were shattered after the O’Donnell blow and there was no way back after the restart, despite a better showing.
Woods made a reflex stop to deny Kris Boyd and Alan Power rifled a drive over the bar.
Accies’ day was summed up by a horror miss from sub Mickel Miller in the final minute.
Brophy’s new deal capped the afternoon and Clarke added: “Eamonn had a problematic summer , but he’s been excellent for me and I’m delighted to get him signed up on a new deal.”