WALKER HOPES HAMPDEN INCENTIVE CAN FIRE UP KILLIE

KILMARNOCK goalkeeper Sam Walker insists the prospect of a Hampden date with Celtic can fuel the Ayrshire side to success over the next fortnight. Killie have enjoyed a productive festive period, fighting back with ten men to claim a point in a 2-2 draw at Motherwell before beating Aberdeen 2-1 at Rugby Park last Wednesday. They host St Mirren this afternoon looking to build on that and drag themselves further clear of any relegation trouble. They then travel to Celtic Park on Saturday in a dress rehearsal for the Viaplay Cup semi-final against the league leaders at Hampden the following weekend. That occasion will mark Killie’s first visit to the national stadium in just over ten years — and Walker insists the competition for places in Derek McInnes’ squad will be intense. ‘Everyone is looking forward to it — and that gives us a huge incentive in the next couple of games,’ said the Englishman, restored to the team after losing his place to Zach Hemming earlier in the season. ‘We all want to do well enough in those games to be picked for the big one. ‘It doesn’t matter who you are — that’s a fantastic day out for anyone. The fans, the staff, the players and all our families will want to be there. ‘I’m really enjoying playing again. I’ve always believed I have a lot to offer the team and, as a goalkeeper, sometimes you need to wait for your opportunity.’ Killie were well worth their victory against an Aberdeen side who barely laid a glove on them until a late Matty Kennedy strike. Walker believes it would have been a travesty had the home side failed to emerge with anything other than three points after such a dominant display. ‘Aberdeen put a few balls into our box after they scored in stoppage-time, but it would have been a travesty if they’d taken something,’ he added. ‘Defensively, it was one of the most comfortable games we’ve had this season. We never felt as though we were under too much pressure. ‘It was just little bits and bobs here and there, although it was a great strike from Kennedy for their goal. ‘Now we have another home game and Rugby Park seems to be treating us really well this season. Opposing teams aren’t enjoying coming here while we’re really enjoying the home games, especially with the support we have here. ‘St Mirren is another really important match for us. After that, we go into a tricky little spell — we have league games away to Celtic and at home to Rangers — and a semi-final against Celtic at Hampden sandwiched in between. ‘With those matches against the big two coming up next, it would be great to take all three points on Monday.’