Kilmarnock has removed the artificial turf at Rugby Park and installed a modern grass-hybrid surface just in time for their important Scottish league match against Celtic on Sunday. The update is part of an effort to shift the perception that the club's previous plastic field gave them an unfair boost in home games.
Kiltie's take on the new pitch
Greg Kiltie, the team's new captain, has spoken out about the change. 'We've had a strong record at home in recent years,' he said. 'But you don't want people to think it's all down to astroturf, so we need to show that it was our good play that led to it.'
He added that the new pitch looks 'incredible' and the squad is eager to perform well on it. 'There's no point in having something great if we show poor form on it,' Kiltie said.
Self-criticism after a recent loss
Although there's excitement around the new pitch, Kiltie admits the team must improve. After their 4-3 defeat to St Johnstone, he pointed out that the players 'lacked intensity in some areas.' He stressed that the group needs to unite and 'fix' their performance ahead of the match against Celtic.
Kiltie also reminded the squad not to underestimate Celtic. 'They're champions for a good reason,' he said. 'Last year, we led 2-0 here and they fought back. That's just the kind of team they are.'