GREG KILTIE hopes Kilmarnock’s Scottish Cup stalemate with Rangers is the turning point in their faltering season.

The Premiership strugglers held Mark Warburton’s side to a goalless draw on Saturday as they earned a fifth round replay.

It was a battling performance from Killie as they defended well to deny the Light Blues and end a tumultuous week on a high note following the departure of manager Gary Locke.

Interim boss Lee McCulloch again played down his aspirations of taking up the post on a permanent basis but Kiltie reckons the 37-year-old has given his side a solid foundation upon which to build going forward.

He said: “We have had a good week. We came here and were well organised, and we were happy with the draw.

“It just shows the character of the team. We really battled and now we can take them back to Rugby Park and try to get a result there.

“It’s been a positive week. The lads have just been as positive as possible to try to come here and get a result.

“Lee’s been good as a gaffer. He doesn’t know how long he will be in charge but he’s came in and tried to keep the spirits up. He had us well organised out there.

“Lee just said to go out and be organised and stick to our jobs - but to play with freedom. He told us not to be scared to have a go.

“He definitely can do the job. It’s not my position to say - it’s up to the board - but he has done well this week and it showed today.

“The board will want it done as quickly as possible to kick start the season.

“Hopefully it will be done soon and we can start climbing the table.

“The fans have had to put up with a lot this season so it was nice to give them something to cheer about. Hopefully we can give them more when we get back to Rugby Park.

“We need to go about our business in the same way as this week and hopefully we can take some of our chances.”