McNeil: ‘Gers have nothing to fear against Kilmarnock

Summer signing Ewan McNeil has declared that the ‘Gers have “nothing to fear” ahead of tonight’s visit to Rugby Park for League Cup Round Two action.

Ewan will still be looking to get forward at Kilmarnock

Ewan will still be looking to get forward at Kilmarnock

Speaking ahead of the visit, Ewan told us: “I’m very much looking forward to the match, as are the whole squad.

“What are the chances of an upset? We’ll wait and see what happens on the night, but there’s no reason I can see as to why we can’t go down there and put on a performance.”

Kilmarnock have been out of sorts so far this season, but despite this paired with experience of a pre-season friendly against the Premiership side, Ewan is clearly more interested in concentrating on what the ‘Gers can do instead of being drawn in to commenting on the home side, continuing:

“We have a good squad that is capable of beating sides in higher leagues – we shown that against Alloa in the first round.

“To me that shows we have nothing to fear ahead of matches – even those against higher league opposition. There’s no pressure on us, so hopefully we can make tomorrow a good night for everyone involved with Berwick.”

McNeil knows Berwick will have to be mentally strong if they are to get a victory away from home to a side which features the likes of Scotland international Kris Boyd, but believes the ‘Gers to have shown just that so far this season.

McNeil set up another goal for an in-form Blair Henderson on Saturday

McNeil set up another goal for an in-form Blair Henderson on Saturday

“Saturday showed just how much character we have within the squad. For me, bouncing back from such a heavy defeat in the manner which we did proves how strong a squad we have.

“I think we got the basics right, didn’t give Stirling time on the ball and we hunted as a team. That’s how it needs to be every game.”

“It was great to get another three points on the board and I enjoyed playing a part in the win. The most important thing will always be contributing to the team’s success, but I admit to being pretty pleased with the start I’ve made to the season on a personal level.

“It’s nice to be helping with a few assists early on in the campaign. I feel our midfield usually plays quite narrow, so it’s perfect for opening up space for me to be able to get in behind defenders and whip a cross in.

“In some respects it’s also proof for me that joining Berwick was a great decision – I’m convinced I made the right decision joining the club.

“I’m loving the opportunity I’ve had to play every week, and I hope to keep up the standard I feel I’ve set early on. I’m really enjoying the license to get forward so hopefully I can continue to contribute in all areas.

McNeil travels with striker Andy Russell, a substitute at Stirling on Saturday

McNeil travels with striker Andy Russell, a substitute at Stirling on Saturday

“It’s also been great off the pitch, too. It’s been really easy settling in to this team. We’re a tight-knit squad who enjoy being in each other’s company.

“If you’ve read some of the other articles on the official site, you’ll have probably heard of the car school by now.

“But I have to say, even though training is a bit of a journey from where I live it’s really no hassle when you’re travelling with three other muppets!”

The club would like to thank Ewan for taking the time out to talk to us and wish him and the rest of the team the best of luck for tonight’s clash with Kilmarnock.