The SWPL is poised for a blockbuster weekend with several key derbies taking center stage. The Old Firm clash between Celtic and Rangers is the highlight, with Rangers coach Leanne Crichton praising the league’s growth. Champions Hibs face Hearts after their European exploits. Live coverage details are provided for fans to follow the action.
The Scottish Women's Premier League (SWPL) is gearing up for a weekend of high-stakes clashes, promising drama and excitement for fans across the country. This weekend's fixtures feature a series of compelling derbies, including the highly anticipated Old Firm match between Celtic and Rangers, as well as Edinburgh rivals Hearts and Hibernian locking horns. With the league's profile and competitiveness on the rise, stakeholders are touting this season as potentially the "best ever."
Celtic and Rangers will meet at New Douglas Park in a match that is sure to capture the attention of the Scottish footballing public. Meanwhile, Hearts will play host to the reigning SWPL champions, Hibernian, in another significant derby. Further adding to the weekend's derby flavor, Hamilton Academical will travel to face Motherwell in a closely contested local affair.
Elsewhere in the league on Sunday, Aberdeen are set to welcome Partick Thistle, while Glasgow City will face off against Montrose in two additional fixtures.
Image source, SNSLeanne Crichton leads Rangers into a match against Celtic for the first time
Leanne Crichton, the head coach of Rangers, expressed her enthusiasm for the current state of women's football in Scotland, highlighting the significant strides made in recent years. Crichton, who recently took over at Ibrox, emphasized the league's growing competitiveness and the improved pathways for youth development as key factors contributing to its progress.
"I think where we are now in the women's game is absolutely the best place we've ever been," Crichton stated. "The restructuring of the league this season is going to make it even more competitive by reducing the numbers and increasing the importance of a lot of the fixtures."
She also acknowledged the importance of fostering strong relationships with other clubs, enabling young talents to gain valuable experience and develop their skills. Crichton believes that these collaborative efforts ultimately contribute to the overall strength of the league.
Rangers currently occupy the second spot in the league standings after three games, trailing Celtic by just two points. Celtic, under the guidance of head coach Elena Sadiku, have enjoyed a flawless start to the campaign, winning all three of their matches while scoring 14 goals and conceding only one. Sadiku emphasized her team's commitment to continuous improvement, stating, "After every game, we talk about what we have done well and what we can learn or do better."
Meanwhile, champions Hibernian are preparing to face Hearts following their recent European campaign. Grant Scott's team progressed to the first round of qualifying for the Uefa Women's Europa Cup after overcoming Apollon Limassol in Cyprus. Hibs have won both of their opening league games but will be aware of the challenge posed by Hearts, who have had a mixed start to the season. Eva Olid's Hearts side will be keen to kickstart their campaign with a victory in the first derby of the season.
Fans eager to follow the action can tune in to Hearts v Hibernian live on the BBC Sport Scotland website and app, with the match kicking off at 13:10 BST. Full radio commentary of Celtic v Rangers will be available on Sportsound, starting at 15:05 BST. Highlights from all five matches will be broadcast on the BBC Scotland channel on Monday night at 19:30 BST.
The SWPL's increasing popularity and competitiveness reflect the growing interest in women's football both in Scotland and globally. With exciting matches and talented players on display, this weekend promises to be a thrilling showcase of the sport's potential.