UTD 1 KIL 1

D UTD V KILMARNOCK

- BY NEIL ROBERTSON

AFTER two-and-a-half years playing for Kilmarnock, Marley Watkins says the Rugby Park club means the world to him.

And he has vowed to do everything in his power to help Killie escape their precarious position in the Premiership relegation playoff spot.

The 35-year-old certainly showed that desire when he came off the bench at Tannadice on Saturday to salvage a precious point for Neil McCann's side against Dundee United.

Killie keeper Kelle Roos had saved an Amar Fatah penalty in the first half but the goalie was helpless when the same United player curled in a cracker with just 16 minutes remaining.

As the game entered stoppage time, it looked likely that the visitors would head back to Ayrshire with nothing to show for their efforts - but Watkins popped up to send a looping header into the United net to spark wild celebrations in the away end.

The Welsh international has endured a stopstart season due to injury but is hoping for more special moments in what remains of the campaign to help ensure Kilmarnock retain their top tier status.

He forward said: "It was a shame we couldn't get the win but, if you're not going to win, at least don't lose the game.

"The boys dug in and showed great spirit. I thought we were on top at the end.

"We were unlucky not to get three but we'll take the point and try to get the win next week at Falkirk.

"The goal meant a lot to me. I've had injuries and stuff but matches are always different compared to training and it's just good to get minutes in the legs.

"I want to make sure I end the season strongly.

"I've grown to love the club, so I want to make sure we're safe at the end of the season.

"I definitely want to score as many as I can and just help the team as much as possible."

Watkins admitted it is impossible to switch off from thinking about the situation Killie find themselves in.