Caley Thistle manager Richie Foran believes matches against the likes of today’s opponents Kilmarnock will define the season.
Foran is an admirer of the Rugby Park club and how Killie have improved under today’s opposite number Lee Clark.
But the Irishman is adamant his side must return to winning ways after last Friday night’s 1-0 home defeat by Rangers.
Foran, who had overseen a five-game unbeaten run before Kenny Miller’s winner, said: “No disrespect to Kilmarnock but these are the kind of games we have to win at home.
“We played very well in stages against Rangers. We were a real goal threat, created numerous chances against a good team.
“I was very pleased with the performance but we need three points now against Kilmarnock.”
Foran’s ambitions are to make the top six this season but he will not waste hours table gazing and said: “I concentrate on it around Christmas.
“It’s all about getting the win in the next match. Kilmarnock had a great win against St Johnstone at the weekend where they cleared their lines very well, so we will be in for a real struggle.
“But it’s one I’m very confident about. We were on a great run of five games unbeaten before we played Rangers but we don’t get carried away or big-headed. We work even harder to put another run together.
“That’s how we get into the top six at the end of the season.”
As for the qualities of the opposition, Foran added: “They are a strong team. If we have an off-day or are not at it or our attitude is not right then they will beat us, it’s as simple as that.
“It’s very tight in the league and anyone can beat anyone. We don’t take it for granted.
“We have to earn the win. I have the right group of players with the right attitudes to get that victory and every game is important.
“Against Kilmarnock, at home, we must be getting three points and we’ll have no excuses if we don’t.”
