KEYED-UP Kilwinning Rangers boss Chris Strain was impressed with his team’s display as they put Largs Thistle to the sword in league at Abbey Park on Saturday.

But Strain is expecting an even bigger test this weekend when his team head for Barrfields Park to take on the same side with a place in the semi-finals of the Macron Scottish Junior Cup at stake.

And Strain is hoping to overcome a personal hoodoo in the game, which is undoubtedly their biggest of the season so far.

He said: “I was in the Irvine Meadow team who lost to Largs in a Scottish Cup quarter-final in 2010. So I expect a tough game.”

While their record has been mixed in the league, Buffs have produced their best form in the national competition.

However, Thistle are unbeaten at Barrfields Park since going down to Auchinleck Talbot at the start of the season and could be tough opponents.

Buffs saw off 2016 winners Beith in the second round and have since toppled top north team Banks O’ Dee and one of the leading lights in the east, Thornton Hibs.

Some feel they are in with a chance of lifting the top trophy for the first time in 20 years.

Strain said: “It was a good display and a good team effort, everyone contributed.”

Looking ahead he said: “We did well but it will be a different challenge at the weekend.

“Largs have a good record at home and there’s a lot of stake for both teams. Hopefully we can get through.”