If Killie can produce a comfortable victory, they would be set up nicely for an important series of SPL matches which could determine the nature of the season ahead.
Chairman Jamie Moffat has identified a cup run as a requirement for the season, and he would ave preferred Accies to have been eliminated in the previous round to set up a well-attended Ayrshire derby,but the tie offers a clear chance for the team to progress. Accies saw off Ayr United 4-1 in the last round and have enjoyed a solid start to the First Division after promotion last season, but suffered their first defeat at th weekend.
David Lilley is available after suspension and is likely to return beside Freddy Dindeleux, and Allan Johnston should be able to gain more valuable match time.
This is an important match for Killie as a win would renew confidence ahead of a run of three home matches out of four in the league against teams that they will hope to finish above in the final standings.
Saturday saw Killie's least impressive performance so far and confidence will have been dented, so look for a good reaction and a two goal victory.