'Killie are not a good match-up for Hibs': Journalists predictions for Kilmarnock v Hibs

Craig Fowler: This is a really tough game to call. It's been a while since Hibs looked as comfortable in any game as they did against Ross County on Wednesday and a lot of that will be down to the additions of Marc McNulty and, in particular, Greg Docherty. Had they been coming up against Killie just a few weeks ago I'd have been confidently predicting an away win. However, Killie have been in resurgent form themselves of late, winning three successive league games and earning a draw from their Scottish Cup fifth-round trip to Aberdeen. Alex Dyer seems to have found the perfect remedy for his side and they'll be a really tough opponent to beat come Sunday. But do I see Hibs losing? Not really. Therefore, I'm going to remain on the fence. Prediction: Draw

Patrick McPartlin: Despite the last meeting between these two teams in Ayrshire failing to throw up a goal in 120 minutes of open play, I think it'll be a very different story this time out. At the risk of jinxing all five of them, Eamonn Brophy and Chris Burke have been in devastating form for Killie while Christian Doidge, Scott Allan and Martin Boyle are all capable of having an impact for Hibs. However, there's a chance the hosts may slip up after their impressive midweek win. If Hibs can replicate their strong points, as evidenced in the comprehensive win over Ross County and reduce the "what do you mean, defend?" aspects of their performances this term then I think they have a real chance of taking the points. The knowledge that a win would take them further ahead of Alex Dyer's side and potentially close the gap on Livingston, who face a trip to Ibrox the day before, should be enough incentive for the visitors. Prediction: Hibs win

Neil McGlade: It's always a difficult one to call when Hibs make the journey to Ayrshire. The Easter Road side have produced some outstanding performances but there's also been their fair share of wretched ones to throw in for good measure. Both sides will be buoyed by their midweek victories and some decent passages of play. Jack Ross' men have the incentive of increasing their advantage over Alex Dyer's side to four points in sixth, while the hosts have the opportunity to leapfrog their opponents should they pick up maximum points. With this in mind, I'm sitting on the fence. Prediction: Draw

Joel Sked: This may be the toughest match to call this weekend. Both come into the game after really positive midweek results. Kilmarnock have steadied the ship and look to be getting back to what they were like under Steve Clarke with his assistant Alex Dyer in charge. The addition of Nicke Kabamba has been a real positive and there is a better balance to the side. This match presents Hibs with the final one of a hectic run. There were real signs of the counter-attacking qualities Ross possesses in his side and they could be an extremely dangerous team away from home. In Boyle, Docherty and Stephane Omeonga they have players who can transition with and without the ball quickly, plus McNulty and Doidge stretching the game for Allan to thread dangerous passes. This is far too close to call. Prediction: Draw

Mark Atkinson: Killie are not a good match-up for Hibs. They have an extremely energetic and combative midfield that get in Hibs' faces, plus an attack full of movement and pest. Hibs have not beaten them in three attempts this season. While both teams had good results during the midweek, home advantage and Hibs' lingering tendency to be a bit of a letdown outside of Edinburgh makes me think Alex Dyer's men might just sneak this. Prediction: Kilmarnock 1-0 Hibs.