Kilmarnock's Pascali vows to give Celtic a hard time

Published on Wednesday 4 March 2009 09:13

CELTIC travel to Kilmarnock tonight looking to keep the pressure on Clydesdale Bank Scottish Premier League leaders Rangers, who are ahead of them goal difference.

Killie midfielder Manuel Pascali has vowed they will not get an easy ride at Rugby Park. The Italian feels his side have not asked enough questions of Celtic in their three previous meeting this season.

Strachan's men have won each of their clashes this term, scoring three goals in each game.

And Pascali insists it is vital Kilmarnock take the lead to put the Hoops under pressure. He said: "It's a big game for us as we don't want to get involved in the relegation battle, while Celtic are under pressure because they are at the top of the league with Rangers.

"If Celtic score first, it's really hard to equalise as they have great players who keep the ball. It would be good if we could score first to see how they react.

"They've had it easy against us as they have scored first early on and that makes it hard for us.

"Celtic and Rangers are both big teams but they are quite different.

"Rangers are more physically powerful and it's really hard to play against them. They are really good in the air especially at free-kicks and corners.

"Celtic have more players that, when they are on fire, are really hard to compete with."