An incredibly historic season for Kilmarnock ended with the Ayrshire side securing third place and European football for the first time over 20 years.
Steve Clarke went into the season on the back of finishing fifth, with many expecting them to either fall away or only achieve similar success.
Clarke came into the campaign having kept the core of the squad that was so successful last season.
Just two wins in the opening six league games had many thinking they were spot on in their expectations of Killie falling away. But Clarke just knew how to get the best out of them. His side grew in confidence as the campaign went on, with Killie losing just a further two of 16 games before the winter break.
Bringing in Youssouf Mulumbu helped seriously bolster the midfield in the summer, and the midfield trio of he, Gary Dicker, and Alan Power helped push Killie on into the second-half of the season.
Even going forward, Eamonn Brophy made up for his lack of goals with surreal energy and determination. He created so much with his movement, and Clarke was managing to instill a selfless aproach throughout his squad.
Two victories over Rangers and one over Celtic continued their fine reputation against the big guns too. With such competency and efficiency in every position, it turned into a real positive campaign in the end.
The cup competitions continue to be elusive for Killie. Betfred and Scottish Cup defeats to Rangers were excusable, particularly as they continued to wow everyone with their discipline and ability to grind out big results.
In the end, Clarke managed to beat Rangers once again and pip Aberdeen to third plce. An incredible feat for Killie, who now go into next season trying to find a replacement for the outgoing Clarke, who has been appointed as the new Scotland manager.
Player departures feel inevitable, but what way Killie go next season is now up in the air. They are, however, Europe bound.
