Kyle heals some of the pain by ensuring SPL safety

Published on Monday 18 May 2009 10:02

KEVIN KYLE played through pain almost as bad as the infamous occasion when his infant son knocked boiling water into the former Scotland striker's lap as he secured Kilmarnock's top-flight status.

The 27-year-old scored the only goal against Inverness, taking his tally to eight since his January move to Rugby Park, and secured Kilmarnock's SPL status.

Kyle had received pain-killing injections for a troublesome hernia prior to kick-off but admitted he was still in agony reminiscent of the incident three years ago when he was put on the injury list at Sunderland by son Max, then eight months gold, who knocked over a jug of scalding water.

He said: "I've had a hernia for a while, and some bruising on the pelvic area which has kept me out of training since Wednesday.

"But I'm the man that's walked away with the winner and the three points for Kilmarnock again, so I can't really complain. I'm delighted with the win but sore all over. In fact, I've not felt this sore since the wee man spilt boiling water over me."

There were scenes of joy and relief at full-time among the home fans at Rugby Park but Inverness now find themselves in a do-or-die final fixture against Falkirk.

The Highlanders can feel a little aggrieved at having left Ayrshire empty-handed as they dominated long periods of play.

Kyle was kept quiet by Inverness defenders Ross Tokely and Grant Munro for long periods of the match. But the tall Killie striker found space at the back post in the 78th minute and latched on to a cross ball from Gary Hay to knock home the winner.

The former Coventry and Sunderland player has had a rough time with injury problems.

But he said: "We've played three games in a week which has been hard.

"I'm looking forward to getting a full pre-season in and being in better shape for next season."