Celtic pose toughest test so far for East Kilbride, says Kilby boss as he praises talented but inexperienced Hoops

East Kilbride boss Mick Kennedy says his side will face their toughest test of the season tonight when they host Celtic B.

Former Kilby defender Darren O'Dea will bring his young Hoops to K-Park for a tasty tussle in the Lowland League, which comes just a couple of weeks after EK knocked Celtic out of the SPFL Trust Trophy in a 3-1 win on the road.

Kennedy's men are currently two points off league leaders Bo'ness United after five games in the fifth tier and, with Cowdenbeath calling on Saturday as well, it is a big week for the club.

The Hoops are down in 11th spot but Kennedy is certain they have the quality to hurt his side and put a dent in their hopes of hitting the summit.

He said: "We'd love to repeat the result from the cup game but you always need to be cautious of their quality.

"I know Celtic were beaten by Berwick on Saturday but I watched the game back and they were unlucky to lose the game.

"It will probably be our most challenging game so far in terms of them being a team who will have a real go at us, like they did in the game when we put them out of the cup.

"Knowing Darren O'Dea and Stephen McManus, I don't think tonight will be any different.

"It will be an open, attacking game of football and a good spectacle. I'm looking forward to it but I am so aware of their quality.

"They are so quick in transitions and, as you would expect, they have got loads of legs and energy in the team.

"They have had a bit of a slow start in the league but I think the challenge for the B teams is that they will have a really strong side for a couple of years, then kids move on.

"I think this Celtic team is at a transition stage where they are working with a younger group again, who are just starting out.

"I think we will