Robbie Deas reckons Kilmarnock have set the standard for their season after their stunning win over Rangers at Rugby Park.
The hosts were well worth their three points as Michael Beale's new-look side saw their Premiership title bid get off to a disastrous start on the opening weekend.
A Brad Lyons strike midway through the second half was enough as Derek McInnes earned his first Old Firm points as Killie boss.
It has been an encouraging start to the campaign in Ayrshire as McInnes has recruited well and seen his side make positive strides in recent weeks.
And Deas believes the win over Rangers has now given Kilmarnock a platform to build on amid hopes of a potential challenge for a top six spot this season.
Deas said: "To be honest, I think we looked comfortable. We defended really well and limited them to very few chances.
"It comes down to our hard work, what we put into training and what the manager drills into us.
"It’s really pleasing as a defender to play in games like that, defend how we did and keep a clean sheet.
"As I said, it sets a standard for us this season and it’s up to us to keep it as high – if not better it.
"The manager has drilled that into us from the get-go. As soon as I came in the door he made that clear.
"It’s an exciting time around the club, a really good changing room, and I’m delighted to be here.
"We’ve had a hard pre-season and if you put the work in then you reap the rewards. I think we saw that.
"We’ve got really good professionals in the team and a good changing room. There’s a group of boys who are willing to work for each other, which is massive.
"I think we showed it on Saturday. We’ve set a bar now and we can’t let that drop."
