Kilmarnock vs Annan Athletic Predictions

• Kilmarnock have failed to win or score in three pre-season matches
• Annan were promoted to Scottish League One last season
• The visitors have only lost one of their last 15 away games by more than a one-goal margin

Killie may find the going tough

Kilmarnock only narrowly avoided relegation from the Premiership last term and their form over pre-season has been uninspiring to say the least, as they have failed to win or even score in their three friendly matches.

Derek McInnes’ side will still expect to open their Scottish League Cup campaign with a victory against their third-tier opponents, although Annan will be heading into the season with a spring in their step after securing promotion to Scottish League One for the first time in their history.

Annan are tough to see off on the road

Annan secured their promotion via the Scottish League One play-offs last term and Peter Murphy has certainly made his side hard to beat.

The Black and Golds did lose five of their final 15 away matches during 2022/23 but only one of those was by a one-goal margin and they certainly have the tools to frustrate their top-tier opponents for large spells at Rugby Park.

Although Annan may ultimately come up short in terms of the result, they could well be worth backing in the handicap market, as if Kilmarnock are to win, they will surely have to work hard for it.