HIBERNIAN are the new SWPL1 leaders and the only side with a 100 per cent record following a 6-0 demolition of Aberdeen at Ainslie Park. The game between closest rivals Celtic and Glasgow City ended 1-1.
Celtic had the better of the first half at the K-Park, and deservedly led through a Natalie Ross goal after 17 minutes. The midfielder made a good run to arrive unmarked at the near post to finish off Sarah Ewens’ low cross.
City were more composed in the second 45 and got the equaliser 19 minutes from time through a Kerry Montgomery own goal. The 10-time champions ended the game on the front foot but a draw was a fair result.
Celtic started their new American signings, central defender Jaclyn Poucel and holding midfielder Darcy McFarlane. Despite only meeting their new team-mates at training on Thursday they fitted in seamlessly.
“There were a lot of physical challenges from both sides, but I don’t remember any bad tackles” Celtic manager David Haley said. “It was good for the league – anybody watching that would see it was a really competitive game. We played well, especially in the first half.”
City head coach Scott Booth, who again chose Lee Alexander in goal ahead of Scotland captain Gemma Fay, said: “We were better in the second half and looking the more likely towards the end of the game.
“We let ourselves down in the first half. The things we’ve been working on which make us a good side we just didn’t do.”
Hibs made short work of Aberdeen despite being without three injured Scotland players, including captain Joelle Murray. Another internationalist, Lizzie Arnot, hit a hat-trick.
The other three were scored by former Dons captain Rachael Small, plus winter signings Amy Gallacher and Katey Turner.
Elsewhere, Stirling University recover from an opening day mauling by Glasgow City to beat Rangers 5-3. Spartans also got their first win, beating Hamilton Accies 1-0.
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