Leaders in Killie's sights

Kilmarnock manager Bobby Williamson has admitted for the first time that his side have set their sights on the Socttish Premier League leaders.

Top-of-the-table Celtic have stumbled this week with a 5-1 drubbing at Rangers and a goalless draw at second-placed Hibernian.

Martin O'Neill's men are still 12 points ahead of Kilmarnock and seven ahead of Hibernian, who have also hit a bad patch.

But the Premier League is closing up with Rangers breathing down the necks of Williamson's side, and he is hoping his players can capitalise on problems elsewhere - starting at Aberdeen.

"It's difficult not to look at the teams at the top because it's getting tight up there," said Williamson.

"We are just five points behind Hibernian now, and Celtic have had a bit of a lapse - so we are definitely looking to get even closer.

"We have got to try and win all our games before the winter break and get within reaching distance of the leaders.

"Rangers are just behind as well, and the teams below them could all come back into the reckoning - so it's good at the minute for Scottish football.

"This has been a hard week for us, and everyone is dropping points. We lost to St Johnstone last weekend but bounced back against Dundee United.

"That was a vital win because we had to get back to winning ways, and now it's a case of buckling down again and trying to beat Aberdeen."

Despite last week's defeat Williamson believes his side have found the consistency that he has been looking for since taking control.

"I think we've got that now, and when you look we've lost just two games in the last 16.

"That's an impressive record, and it's very good for the players. But tomorrow will be another test, and it's always difficult going to Pittodrie.

"But if we continue to fight for one another then I don't see any problems and I hope we can get even closer to the teams above us."

Aberdeen manager Ebbe Skovdahl insists the generation game could play its part in his side triumphing after the midweek, goalless draw against St Johnstone.

"Kilmarnock are an experienced side, and their average age is even higher when Ally McCoist is playing," said Skovdahl.

"They play very differently from St Johnstone, and we will have to adjust our style.

"Killie are a very counter-attacking side, and our last meeting was a tight affair - I'm sure this one will be no different.

"Their away record has been excellent, and I am sure we are in for a tough game.

"Although we beat them 5-1 here last season, both teams had nothing to play for - and I'm sure they will test us fully.

"Andy McLaren has been an excellent signing for them. He has played a huge part in their success this season and he will need to be watched."