East Kilbride boss Mick Kennedy says promotion is 'everything' as they're on the verge of clinching title

East Kilbride boss Mick Kennedy says a treble would have counted for nothing if they don’t ultimately win promotion to League Two.

Kennedy was left frustrated as his side lost the Lowland League Cup final to Tranent on Sunday in a 5-4 shoot-out, after a 2-2 draw at Broadwood.

With a 16-point lead over second-placed Hearts ‘B’ and 19 above nearest challengers Bo’ness United, Kilby need just a point at Civil Service Strollers tonight (Wednesday) to clinch the Lowland League title.

They then have the South Challenge Cup final against Kirkintilloch Rob Roy on May 26 to look forward to.

But Kennedy says even winning the lot would be seen as a failure if they don’t make the step up to the SPFL.

Kennedy said: “Promotion is the be-all and end-all, I don’t even think the title is it.

“If we win the league and don’t get promotion it will be seen as a failure.

“That sounds harsh, but it’s the reality of it. Winning the league and the South Challenge Cup, none of that is important, if we don’t get promoted.

“We just need to get the league tied up this week and then get ready for the play-offs.

“Civil Service Strollers is a huge game and a huge opportunity, and it’s what the boys have worked hard all season for.

“I know we lost a cup final on Sunday but the fact that we’re sitting so comfortably at the top of the league and in two cup finals is testament to the group and how well they’ve done.

“Nothing is guaranteed, or to get to finals, so the boys have done remarkably well, especially considering the amount of injuries we’ve had and the uncertainty around the group.

“It has been a really strong end to the season so far, but we just need to get to those play-offs and try and get promoted.

“Berwick on Saturday gives us a chance to